A Resident General Surgeon at the Upper East Regional Hospital, Dr Solomon Oppong Akorley, has dismissed claims that sucking a woman’s breast can prevent breast cancer, describing the belief as medically unfounded.
He said the practice was not recognised as a preventive measure against the disease and urged the public to rely on proper breast examination and medical screening for early detection.
Dr. Akorley made the remarks during a breast cancer sensitisation exercise organised by the Ghana Revenue Authority Workers’ Union (GRAWU) in Bolgatanga as part of activities marking Pink October, an international campaign held annually in October to raise awareness about breast cancer prevention, early detection and support for patients.
Speaking to the media, he said the misconception should not prevent women from adopting medically recommended approaches to monitoring their breast health.
“It’s not true that sucking the breast actually helps prevent breast cancer in any form,” he stated.
He explained that although partners could support women by helping them conduct breast examinations, such assistance should not be confused with a preventive measure.
“What you can actually do is teach your husband how to do the breast examination so that, in case you need help, he can be the one to help you examine it. But other than that, sucking the breast doesn’t actually prevent breast cancer,” he said.
Dr. Akorley encouraged women to pay attention to changes in their breasts, conduct self-examinations and seek medical attention whenever they notice anything unusual.
He also urged the public to take advantage of breast cancer awareness and screening programmes, stressing the importance of early reporting and regular medical examinations.
The sensitisation exercise formed part of GRAWU’s efforts to promote the health and well-being of its members and the wider public.
Before the educational session, male and female members of the union embarked on a health walk through the principal streets of Bolgatanga to raise awareness about breast cancer, its effects and preventive measures.
Local Secretary of GRAWU, Awafo Cynthia, said the union organised the activity as part of its social responsibility to educate the public and encourage people to prioritise their health.
She said the union was concerned about the health of both male and female workers and wanted to help dispel misconceptions surrounding the disease.
Ms. Awafo encouraged people to seek screening and medical examinations whenever the opportunity arose rather than waiting for October, which is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joshua Asaah| Joshua Asaah
