The Breast Society of Ghana has called on women to prioritise early breast cancer screening and seek medical attention promptly when they notice breast symptoms.

The Society has chosen “Early Action, Better Outcomes” as its theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Pinktober, 2026.

In a statement, the Society said breast cancer remains a major health challenge in Ghana and is the leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths among women.

It said too many women continue to seek treatment when the disease is already advanced, when it is no longer curable.

“Early breast cancer is curable,” the Society said, adding that Ghana has the necessary modalities to treat and cure the disease.

It said Ghana has also become a hub for specialist care in the subregion, with patients from across West Africa seeking treatment in the country.

According to the Society, the survival rate for early breast cancer treated in Ghana is over 90%, which it said is comparable to survival rates in developed countries.

The Society said this is reflected in the number of breast cancer survivors living in Ghana, although many are unable to share their experiences because of fear of stigma.

It said advanced breast cancer presents a different challenge because treatment options are limited, prolonged and more expensive, while survival is poor.

“Behind every delayed diagnosis is a complex combination of factors: limited awareness, fear, stigma, misinformation, financial constraints, geographical barriers, and delays within the healthcare system,” the Society said.

Call for breast screening

The Breast Society of Ghana said early action should begin with recognising that breast cancer can affect anyone, although it mostly affects women.

It urged people not to ignore symptoms such as a lump, nipple discharge, changes in the shape or size of the breast, skin changes or any persistent abnormality.

The Society, however, said the best way to diagnose breast cancer early is through screening before symptoms develop.

It therefore called on women to take advantage of free primary healthcare and undergo breast screening at health facilities across the country.

The Society also urged the public to reject myths and misconceptions about breast cancer and its treatment.

It said women should not delay seeking medical attention because of fears of losing a breast, chemotherapy, beliefs that breast cancer is a spiritual curse or reliance solely on unproven remedies.

“Breast cancer is a disease that requires timely and appropriate medical care,” it said.

Call for support and timely treatment

The Society called on the public to seek reliable information and consult qualified healthcare professionals when breast symptoms arise.

It also urged families and communities to support rather than stigmatise people affected by breast cancer.

The media, religious and traditional leaders, civil society organisations and community leaders were also encouraged to use their influence to promote accurate information and encourage timely care-seeking.

The Society further called on healthcare professionals and health institutions to strengthen systems that reduce avoidable delays.

It urged healthcare providers to assess, investigate and refer clients with breast symptoms promptly.

“Every person diagnosed with breast cancer deserves access to evidence-based, patient-centred and comprehensive treatment,” the Society said.

WHO targets

The Society cited the World Health Organisation’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative targets established in 2021, which focus on early detection and action.

The targets include having at least 60% of all breast cancers diagnosed at an early stage, completing diagnosis within 60 days, and ensuring that 80% of diagnosed patients complete their treatment.

The Society said Ghana must ensure that breast cancer is diagnosed early through screening, symptoms are recognised and reported promptly, patients reach appropriate health facilities without unnecessary delays, and everyone diagnosed with breast cancer has access to timely, quality and comprehensive care.

It said achieving this requires a shared responsibility among individuals, families, communities, religious bodies, healthcare systems, policymakers and government agencies.

“Because early action can lead to earlier diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis can expand treatment options. Timely treatment can achieve a cure and improve survival outcomes,” the Society said.

It concluded with the message: “Early Action. Better Outcomes. The time to act is now.”

The statement was signed by Prof. Josephine Nsaful, President of the Breast Society of Ghana, and Ms Enam Setsoafia, General Secretary.