A total of 870 women have undergone breast cancer screening in four communities in the Atiwa East Constituency in the first three days of the 2026 Obaatanpa Free Breast Cancer Screening Programme, with five referred for mammograms for further medical assessment.

The initiative, led by Atiwa East Member of Parliament and Chairperson of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, Abena Osei-Asare, has so far covered Adasawase, Asamang Tamfoe, Moseaso and Anyinam as part of efforts to improve women’s access to preventive healthcare.

In a Facebook post, the MP expressed satisfaction with the programme’s progress and urged more women across the constituency to take advantage of the free screening as the exercise moves to additional communities.

“I am pleased to share the encouraging progress of the 2026 Obaatanpa Free Breast Cancer Screening programme which has successfully screened 870 women across Adasawase, Asamang Tamfoe, Moseaso and Anyinam within its first three days,” she wrote.

She added that five women had been referred for mammograms to facilitate further medical assessment.

The referrals provide an opportunity for additional investigation where necessary. However, the programme’s reported figures do not establish that the women have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Osei-Asare said the initiative reflects her commitment to promoting women’s health and improving access to preventive healthcare, particularly through early detection and timely medical attention.

She also acknowledged the contributions of the party’s Women’s Wing and nurses from Enyiresi Government Hospital, praising their professionalism and dedication to the exercise.

“I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to the Women’s wing of the party and the dedicated team of nurses from Enyiresi Government Hospital for their commitment, professionalism and invaluable contribution to the success of this initiative,” she stated.

The MP encouraged more women in Atiwa East to participate as the programme extends to other communities, reiterating the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer.

“Early detection saves lives!” she added.

Why early detection matters

Breast cancer remains a major public health concern, and screening can help identify suspicious changes that require further investigation. Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to examine breast tissue and can help detect abnormalities before they become noticeable through physical symptoms.

A referral for a mammogram does not, on its own, mean that a woman has cancer. Further assessment is necessary to determine the nature of any suspected abnormality and whether additional tests or treatment are required.

The World Health Organization recommends that breast cancer control efforts combine early diagnosis, appropriate medical evaluation and timely access to treatment. Public education and screening initiatives can support these efforts by encouraging women to seek medical advice and follow up on referrals.

With 870 women screened during its first three days, the 2026 Obaatanpa initiative has begun extending preventive healthcare services to communities in Atiwa East.

Its continued reach will depend on participation, appropriate follow-up for referred women and access to further medical assessment where needed.

EA