Beposo Ankaasehemaa sounds alarm over breast cancer, urges early detection and immediate medical care

Beposo Ankaasehemaa, Obaapanin Akua Nyanta Oforiwaa, has issued a strong call for increased breast cancer awareness, early detection and timely treatment as the world marks October Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In a message to commemorate the month, the traditional leader urged women and the general public to become more vigilant about changes in the breast and seek professional medical attention whenever they notice anything unusual.

This year’s awareness message is anchored on the theme “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” highlighting the need to treat every breast cancer patient with dignity, compassion and respect while ensuring access to quality healthcare.

Breast Cancer Remains a Major Threat
Obaapanin Akua Nyanta Oforiwaa noted that breast cancer continues to pose a significant global health challenge, affecting millions of women across different countries and communities.

She explained that the disease develops when abnormal cells in breast tissue grow uncontrollably and form a tumour, which can eventually invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

She stressed that breast cancer does not have one single cause, but can be influenced by several biological, genetic, reproductive, environmental and lifeclass factors.

Among the risk factors are increasing age, obesity, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, family history, previous radiation exposure and certain reproductive factors.

Inherited genetic mutations, including BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2, may also increase a person's risk.

However, the Beposo Ankaasehemaa cautioned that the absence of a family history does not eliminate the possibility of developing breast cancer, since many women diagnosed with the disease have no known major risk factor.

Do Not Ignore the Warning Signs
She urged the public to pay close attention to possible warning signs, including a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in the size, shape or appearance of a breast, dimpling, redness or other unusual skin changes, changes in the nipple or surrounding area, and unusual nipple discharge, including bloody discharge.

While acknowledging that most breast lumps are not necessarily cancerous, she stressed that persistent or unusual changes should never be ignored.

She encouraged individuals to consult qualified health professionals for proper examination and diagnosis rather than attempting to diagnose themselves.

Early Detection Can Save Lives
A major focus of the awareness message was the importance of early detection.

According to Obaapanin Akua Nyanta Oforiwaa, recognizing symptoms early and obtaining timely medical assessment can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

She encouraged individuals to follow appropriate screening recommendations based on their age and personal risk, including mammography where recommended and available.

She also warned that delays in seeking medical care can allow the disease to progress, potentially making treatment more difficult and complicated.

Healthy Living and Risk Reduction
The Beposo Ankaasehemaa further encouraged the public to adopt healthier lifeclasss that can help reduce some breast cancer risks.

She advocated regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding tobacco and eating a healthy diet.

People with strong family histories of breast cancer or known genetic risks, she added, should seek professional advice for appropriate risk assessment and care.

Cancer Is More Than a Medical Battle
Obaapanin Akua Nyanta Oforiwaa also drew attention to the emotional, social and financial consequences of breast cancer.

She noted that patients may experience fear, anxiety, stress, fatigue, body-image concerns and financial difficulties during their treatment journey.

Families and caregivers can also face significant emotional and economic pressures.

She therefore called for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care that includes not only medical treatment but also psychological support, rehabilitation, social assistance and palliative care when necessary.

A Call for Compassion and Action
As October unfolds, the Beposo Ankaasehemaa called on individuals, families, communities, traditional leaders and health stakeholders to turn breast cancer awareness into concrete action.

She urged the public to learn the warning signs, share accurate information, encourage early medical consultation and support people living with breast cancer without stigma or blame.

She also warned against misinformation and the use of unproven remedies as replacements for professional medical care.

According to her, Breast Cancer Awareness Month should not be reduced to pink ribbons and public campaigns.

Rather, it should become a period for communities to educate, detect, support and act.

“No person should face breast cancer alone,” she emphasized, stressing that compassionate communities and accessible healthcare can play a crucial role in protecting lives and improving outcomes.

For Obaapanin Akua Nyanta Oforiwaa, the message is clear: awareness must lead to action, and early action can make a difference.

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