By Hannah Dadzie and Portia Sarpong
The Meena Breast Cancer Foundation has urged the government to make breast cancer treatment free of charge. Addressing a news conference in Accra, Executive Director of the Foundation, Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng expressed concern about the financial burden on breast cancer patients and their families, noting that the current coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme is inadequate.
Mr Kwarteng also highlighted the alarming rise in suspected breast cancer cases among senior high school students, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness and support. He said despite the foundation’s efforts to assist patients, securing funding remains a significant challenge.
Meena Breast Cancer Foundation is empowering and supporting individuals affected by breast cancer. The Foundation says screening results from more than 50 schools have revealed frightening suspected cases of breast cancer. Its Executive Director, Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, emphasized the need to apply the same level of energy seen in other health campaigns to breast cancer awareness. He said dedicating October as a breast cancer referral month is challenging. He suggested that stakeholders spread awareness and campaigns throughout the year.
“We decided to revisit senior high schools; it was important that we do that because we realized that 13 years, 14 years, and 15-year-olds are affected by breast cancer. For now, we focus on senior high schools across the country, this is not to say that we have neglected the communities. We are calling on the government to make breast cancer treatment virtually free. If it is free, why are our women dying, why is Meena Breast Cancer Foundation paying a lot of money. The disease has advanced. The massive rally behind with HIV let’s do the same for breast cancer. I have lost a wife, I know how it is. It is important that we also get people who understand the pains that people go through.” Mr Kwarteng said.
At the news conference, stakeholders stressed the need for increased awareness, early detection, and improved access to treatment. The Ministry of Health commended the Meena Breast Cancer Foundation, for its tireless efforts in saving lives. Some breast cancer survivors said while the disease remains a significant healthcare challenge with rising incidence and mortality rates, there is still hope.
“It’s a journey most people don’t make it, but others also survive and I thank God I survived. It is deadly and poisonous. Going through it is like being in the valley of the shadow of death. We should show love to breast cancer patients. We should ignite hope.” Breast Cancer Survivor one
“I survived 5 years ago. It doesn’t respect anybody and so when you hear or see somebody with cancer please support. The treatments are expensive.”Breast Cancer Survivor two
“The stigma is too much. It’s just by the grace of God I’m here today. I didn’t know what it was. There was no pink October, nothing so there is hope.”Breast Cancer Survivor three
The Foundation called for the establishment of oncology units in all regional hospitals, to facilitate the treatment of the disease.