ICU-Ghana urges sustained breast cancer awareness beyond October

The Industrial and Commercial Workers' Union (ICU-Ghana) has urged Ghanaians to sustain breast cancer awareness efforts beyond October, emphasising the importance of early detection and timely medical intervention.

The union says awareness campaigns should go beyond the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month to encourage people to speak openly about the disease, seek medical advice and support those affected.

Speaking at a breast cancer awareness programme organised in collaboration with Ibis Styles Hotel in Accra on Thursday, October 29, ICU-Ghana General Secretary Morgan Ayawine said the initiative represented a partnership aimed at raising awareness, promoting early detection and saving lives.

He described breast cancer as a major health concern that affects not only patients but also their families and communities.

“However, we are assured that early detection and timely medical intervention can significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives,” he said.

Mr Ayawine expressed concern that many women continue to suffer in silence because of fear, stigma and inadequate information about the disease.

Under the theme of breaking the silence, he urged women to become more conscious of changes in their breasts, seek appropriate clinical screening and consult health professionals promptly when they notice unusual symptoms.

“Today, we must send a clear message: no more silence! Early detection matters,” he said.

He cautioned women against allowing fear or stigma to prevent them from seeking medical attention, urging them to make their health and well-being a priority.

The ICU-Ghana General Secretary also highlighted the fact that men can develop breast cancer, calling for awareness campaigns to include both sexes.

He encouraged men to support women by urging them to seek medical advice and participate in appropriate screening.

Mr Ayawine paid tribute to breast cancer survivors, describing their courage and resilience as a source of inspiration to others affected by the disease.

“Your courage, resilience, and determination remind us that there is hope, even in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis,” he said.

He further argued that healthcare must remain a national priority, saying the country's development ambitions should be matched by efforts to protect the health of its people.

“We cannot continue to talk about building a nation without prioritising the health of human beings who constitute the greatest assets of a nation,” he added.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed every October to promote public education, encourage early detection and support people affected by the disease.

ICU-Ghana's collaboration with Ibis Styles Hotel forms part of its efforts to promote the health and well-being of workers and the wider Ghanaian population.

The union has called for continued public education, open conversations about breast cancer and greater support for survivors and people undergoing treatment.