The PEADATO Foundation has urged the government to extend breast cancer awareness campaigns beyond the month of October every year.
The Foundation believes awareness and screening should be held at least twice a year to save more lives through early detection.
Board Chair of the PEADATO Foundation, Dr. Gertrude Asiedu, says the Foundation’s commitment aligns with the global Pink October campaign, which aims to remind women of the importance of regular breast screenings.
“I would encourage all women across all that, do not wait for the 31st of October before you get yourself screened or before you get yourself checked. Make it your priority to continuously check yourself. Check regularly to get yourself saved,” she said.
In collaboration with the Asokwa Municipal Assembly, the Foundation undertook a free breast screening exercise at Gyinase.
The breast cancer awareness program brought together people from various communities, reinforcing one message that could save many lives: early detection is the best protection.
A beneficiary of the program, Joyce Opoku, shared her personal story, expressing how the experience of losing a close friend to breast cancer pushed her to get screened.
“I lost someone I lived with to breast cancer because it was detected too late. That’s why I didn’t hesitate to come to this screening. I want to tell every woman out there don’t wait. Get checked early, because breast cancer is real and can take lives,” she said.
Dr. Asiedu explained that the Foundation’s mission is to educate, inspire, and impact communities.
“PEADATO Foundation is all about inspiring change and giving back to society. Through this initiative, we want to encourage the youth and women to prioritize their health and engage in activities that promote wellness,” she added.
She also appealed to individuals and stakeholders to support the foundation financially, stressing that such contributions are vital to sustain their programs.
The Health Promotion Officer of the Asokwa Municipal Health Directorate, Selena Osei-Tutu, addressed common fears and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer. She cautioned against the use of herbal products or unapproved remedies, advising people to seek professional medical help.
“If you notice any strange signs in your breast, don’t rely on herbs or home treatments. The best step is to visit the hospital for screening and take medical advice seriously,” she said.
The Administrator of PEADATO Foundation, Abena Oforiwaa Dadzie, also emphasized the need for the government to strengthen awareness efforts and equip health facilities with the necessary tools for screening.
She said the initiative was inspired by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global campaign on breast cancer.
“Breast cancer is real, and early detection saves lives. We shouldn’t wait until October to get screened. I believe adding another month to raise awareness and providing hospitals with the needed resources will help us fight this disease better,” she stated.
The PEADATO Foundation, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to improving lives through health, education, and economic empowerment initiatives. Its goal is to support vulnerable groups, promote health education, and reduce breast cancer mortality rates among women and men.
Source: Josephine Sagoe