Lack of mammography machines hinders breast cancer screening in Adansi North District

Breast cancer screening challenges persist in the Adansi North district of the Ashanti Region due to the absence of mammography machines, despite efforts to raise awareness and encourage early detection during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The scarcity of mammography machines in this region has been a growing concern, especially for women aged 40 and older who should regularly undergo breast cancer screening.

Dr. Abena Konadu Yawson, the Medical Superintendent of the Adansi North District Hospital, revealed this issue during an interview held at a breast screening event organized by AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine. This event was conducted in commemoration of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month and took place in Fomena, within the Adansi North district.

Dr. Yawson noted that aside from the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and a few private medical facilities in the Ashanti Region, most hospitals in the area lack the necessary mammography machines for breast cancer screenings. She expressed hope that the Fomena hospital would soon acquire a mammography machine to enable the local population to receive proper screenings and know their breast cancer status.

Dr. Yawson also lamented the lack of commitment on the part of women to avail themselves for breast cancer screenings. She pointed out that a significant number of breast cancer cases are reported at later stages, making treatment substantially more challenging.

Supporting Dr. Yawson’s concerns, Nana Nyantakyiwaa Amoako Asare, a breast cancer survivor and queen mother of Obuasi Guasu, emphasized that awareness about breast cancer has reached its zenith. She expressed her good fortune in having encountered someone knowledgeable about breast cancer when she was diagnosed and encouraged young people to take breast cancer screening seriously.

Nana Amoako Asare also highlighted the shortage of mammography machines in the region and emphasized the significance of mammograms in detecting breast issues and removing cancerous cells after treatment. She recommended regular checkups as essential for preventing the recurrence of the disease.

The queen mother praised AngloGold Ashanti for organizing the free screening exercise and urged individuals to have their breasts examined periodically to avoid potential cancerous situations.

AngloGold Ashanti has demonstrated its commitment to various health intervention programs, as part of its 10-year Socio-Economic Development Plan, aimed at improving healthcare in its host communities.

Their campaign against breast and prostate cancers aims to raise awareness about these diseases, empower individuals to take charge of their health through regular screenings, and promote healthier lifestyles.

They have undertaken projects such as refurbishing the Anyinam Health Center, initiating the construction of the Dokyiwa/Binsere health center, and planning to build a CHPs compound at Apitikooko, a theater, and laboratory facilities at Akrokerri CHPs compound, and a health center at Akaporiso.

AngloGold Ashanti intends to expand its support throughout the entire Adansi Traditional area to acknowledge the support the traditional authorities in Adansi have provided the company over the years.

Hon. Kwaku Kusi Eric, Chief Executive for the Adansi North District Assembly, emphasized the prevalence of misconceptions surrounding breast cancer. He encouraged women to disregard these myths and misconceptions and promptly seek medical attention if necessary.

Nana Amoanimaa Dede II, the Queenmother of the Adansi Traditional area, commended AngloGold Ashanti for conducting the free breast and prostate cancer screening and described it as a step in the right direction. She urged women to take advantage of these screenings to be aware of their health status.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October, is an international health campaign with the primary goal of raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection, supporting those affected by the disease, and raising funds for research, prevention, and treatment.

SOURCE: SAMPSON MANU/ISD