Background and Context:
Breast cancer is a serious public health problem in Ghana. It is the leading malignancy accounting for nearly 17% of all cancers and the incidence appears to be on the rise. Late presentation has been considered as the hallmark of the disease in G where the majority (an average of 60%) of women reports either stage 3 or 4 and stay with it for at least ten months before seeking any medical consultation. Ghanaian women are disproportionately diagnosed at earlier age (40-49 years) with high-grade tumors that are a more aggressive than white women. While biological differences have been noted as a major risk factor, sociocultural, personal, economic, and other behavioral risk factors may influence help seeking and stage at diagnosis especially among women in low and middle income countries (LMICs).
Aim:
To decrease the number of breast cancer patients presenting with advanced stages of the disease
Strategy/Tactics:
While supporting the recommendation by the Breast Health Global Initiative (BHGI) panel on implementation of strategies to optimize breast cancer management in LMICs, Breast Care International (BCI) is leading an effort to promote breast health for women affected by breast cancer in Ghana.
Programme/Policy Process:
Various strategies including the use of media, breast cancer survivor stories, opinion leaders influence, community outreach, and faith-based organizations used by BCI in demystifying the disease to increase early detection.
Outcomes/What was learned: Increased awareness and knowledge of breast cancer could promote early presentation