Pink October 2026 launched in Ho with call for early action and stronger support

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has launched the 2026 National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, popularly known as Pink October, with a renewed call for early detection, timely treatment and stronger support for people living with breast cancer.

The launch, held in Ho in the Volta Region on Thursday, was organised under the theme, “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” drawing attention to the different experiences of breast cancer patients and survivors and the need to address not only their medical needs but also the emotional, social and economic challenges that come with the disease.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said breast cancer should not be treated as a health issue alone, stressing that the disease can affect families, livelihoods, emotional well-being and people’s ability to participate fully in community life.

She said the Ministry was particularly concerned about the social and economic circumstances that often shape the experiences of women and other persons diagnosed with breast cancer.

According to her, Ghana records about 5,000 new cases of breast cancer each year, with nearly 2,000 deaths; she therefore urged the public to take breast health seriously by becoming more aware of the disease, detecting warning signs early, seeking timely diagnosis and accessing appropriate treatment.

Dr Lartey also called for myths and misconceptions about breast cancer to be challenged, noting that misinformation and fear could prevent people from seeking screening or medical attention.

She encouraged anyone who notices unusual changes or symptoms to seek medical care promptly, while emphasising that emotional, social and other forms of support should complement medical treatment.

The Minister further appealed to families and communities to reject stigma and instead stand by breast cancer patients and survivors throughout their treatment and recovery.

She said the personal testimonies shared by survivors during the launch reminded everyone that behind the statistics are real people, each with a different experience, set of challenges, and journey.

Dr Lartey expressed appreciation to the Office of the Vice President for its support for the campaign and acknowledged the Government’s commitment to reducing financial barriers to healthcare.

She cited the Ghana Medical Trust Fund as one of the initiatives aimed at supporting access to healthcare for people who may otherwise struggle to meet the cost of treatment.

The Minister also urged the media to keep breast cancer education alive beyond October, using their platforms to promote accurate information and encourage early action throughout the year.

Representatives of the Office of the Vice President, Ghana Health Service, Volta Regional Queen Mothers Association and the Breast Society of Ghana, in their solidarity messages, stressed the importance of collective action, public education, early detection, access to treatment and sustained support for those affected by the disease.

The launch featured a breast cancer sensitisation walk involving schools and women’s groups, alongside a breast health presentation and demonstration of breast self-examination.

Participants also heard testimonies from survivors and took part in cultural performances, while breast screening was provided as part of the activities.

The national Pink October campaign seeks to keep breast cancer firmly on the public health agenda while encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to protect their breast health and promoting greater understanding, compassion and support for people affected by the disease.

This version puts the human impact and survivor experience at the centre of the story, rather than making the launch the main focus.