Study links illegal mining pollution to rising breast cancer cases in Eastern Region

New research has established a disturbing link between environmental pollution from illegal mining—locally known as galamsey—and the increasing number of breast cancer cases in Ghana’s Eastern Region.

The revelation was made by Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, CEO of Peace and Love Hospitals and Founder of Breast Care International, during a cancer education and oncology training workshop in Kumasi. The session brought together senior journalists and morning show hosts from areas most affected by illegal mining.

Dr. Wiafe Addai explained that the study, conducted in collaboration with the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Somanya and sponsored by Teva Pharmaceuticals, identified high levels of toxic chemicals in water bodies used by communities living near galamsey sites.

“This is no longer a theory. The data is clear — toxic pollutants from galamsey activities are contributing significantly to the increase in breast cancer diagnoses, especially in mining-affected communities,” she emphasised.

She raised alarm over the growing number of women diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer, a trend she blamed on both environmental exposure and gaps in public health education and infrastructure. The combination of contaminated water sources and limited access to early diagnosis and treatment is proving deadly for many women in rural communities.

Dr. Wiafe Addai urged government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, and philanthropists to channel more resources into local research. She underscored the importance of data generated within Ghana, which she said was more reflective of the realities on the ground and better suited for shaping effective interventions.

She also called on the media to step up, saying journalists and broadcasters have the power to shift public opinion and influence national policy. She encouraged them to use their platforms not only to raise awareness about breast cancer but also to push for urgent action against illegal mining and its health consequences.