GhanaWeb Feature by Joycelyn Kyei-Baffuor

Every year on February 4, the global community comes together to observe World Cancer Day, a unified effort to raise awareness, promote education, and inspire action against cancer.

In Ghana, this day holds great significance as the country tackles the escalating burdens of cancer.

According to the 2022 Global Cancer Statistics (GLOBOCAN) report, Ghana records approximately 27,385 new cancer cases annually.

Sadly, 17,944 lives are lost to cancer each year, with a prevalence of 63,764 cases over the past five years.

Additionally, breast and prostate cancers are the most common among females and males, respectively, followed by liver and cervical cancers, which are rising rapidly.

National Efforts and Initiatives

In recent years, the Ghanaian government, NGOs, and healthcare institutions have intensified efforts to combat cancer.

National cancer control programs, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with international organisations aim to enhance cancer care services.

Public awareness and education are also crucial in the fight against cancer in Ghana. Various campaigns and initiatives emphasise the importance of regular screenings, early detection, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Community outreach programs and educational seminars, organised by the Ministry of Health and NGOs, like Breast Care International, help spread awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.

Challenges and Barriers

Despite the progress, challenges persist. Access to quality healthcare remains limited, especially in rural areas.

High treatment costs and limited availability of advanced diagnostic tools also exacerbate the problem.

Cultural beliefs and stigma surrounding cancer also hinder timely medical help.

The Way Forward

World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the need for continued action and investment in cancer prevention, treatment, and research in Ghana.

A collaborative effort from the government, healthcare providers, NGOs, and the community is necessary to address these challenges and build on progress.

As Ghana joins the rest of the world to mark Cancer Day, it's an opportunity to reflect on achievements, acknowledge ongoing efforts, and reaffirm commitment to a future where cancer is no longer a death sentence.

The theme for World Cancer Day 2025, 'United by Unique,' emphasises the importance of person-centric approaches in the fight against the disease.

JKB/AE

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