The President of Breast Care International (BCI), Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, revealed that women who have never given birth or who give birth later in life face an increased risk of breast cancer.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory, Ghana records more than 5,000 new breast cancer cases every year, with about 2,300 women dying from the disease.
Speaking at a breast cancer awareness event in Koforidua, Dr.Beatrice Wiafe Addai revealed that women who give birth late or never had children stand higher risk of getting breast cancer.
She stressed, however, that breast cancer does not have a single direct cause stating that hereditary factors, smoking, all contribute to heightened vulnerability.
She noted that environmental pollution from illegal mining activities in the Eastern Region may be compounding the problem.
Research, she noted, has detected dangerously high levels of mercury and other toxins in mining-affected communities, substances that have been linked to cancer risks.
International surgical oncologist and theoretical physicist, Dr. Liesbeth Janssen, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that early detection and access to treatment are the most effective ways to save lives.
She urged women to prioritize regular screening and governments to expand cancer care services across the country.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
