Women are being encouraged to perform monthly breast self-examinations. According to Public Health Nurse in the Upper East Region, Gifty Damsongor, this practice aids in the early detection of breast cancer and allows for timely treatment.
“Breast self-examinations should be done every month to check for any changes. This can be done by the individual. However, once a year, it is advisable to seek confirmation from a health professional.”
“If during your self-examination you notice any unfamiliar changes, you should have a professional check it for you,” Ms. Damsongor said during an interview with Humul Khrusum Tahiru on A1 Radio’s *Equal Voices* program.
The program focused on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, commonly known as *Pink October*.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis and treatment, and provide palliative care for women affected by the disease.
Each year, there are about 1.7 million new cases of breast cancer and 522,000 deaths globally [Globocan 2012, http://gco.iarc.fr/today/home]. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in most countries. In low- and middle-income countries, the incidence has been rising steadily due to factors such as increased life expectancy, changing reproductive patterns (like later age at first childbirth and less breastfeeding), and the adoption of Western lifestyles.
Ms. Damsongor explained that all health facilities with midwives or general nurses can assist individuals who wish to have their breasts screened.
Unfortunately, she noted, many women in the Upper East Region are unable to perform self-examinations effectively and therefore need to visit health facilities to learn this important skill.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com|101.1 MHZ|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga
