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The President and Founder of Breast Care International, Dr. Mrs. Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, has re-iterated calls once the government to urgently include cancer patients in the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program as a form of support.
She emphasized that cancer treatment is expensive, often leaving survivors in poverty, and stressed the importance of providing assistance, as anyone could potentially become a cancer patient or suffer from other communicable diseases.
She noted that more patients are being seen with advanced conditions after spending extended periods at unqualified facilities where practitioners claim to offer cures through exorcism. She emphasized that reversing this trend requires sustained nationwide education and economic empowerment.
She also proposed a People-Centered approach that could enhance patient well-being, provide higher quality care, and foster greater trust in healthcare providers.
According to her, this approach not only increases satisfaction among patients and their families but also promotes health equity and improves the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system.
Dr. Mrs. Wiafe-Addai made these comments while raising awareness among the residents and students of Beposo in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti region during the 2025 World Cancer Day celebration, themed "United by Unique." She revealed that cancer care in Ghana is hindered by superstition and financial challenges.
She further explained that the two key components of Breast Care International's long-standing anti-cancer campaign are focusing on the theme "United by Unique" to develop people-centered programs and policies aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by cancer patients.
Dr Mrs Wiafe-Addai stated that understanding and incorporating the needs and preferences of individuals and communities into healthcare delivery will ensure more equitable access to care, both in low- and high-income settings. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that people living with cancer feel seen, heard, and empowered.
She revealed that in 2022, there were approximately 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths from the disease. She pointed out that about 1 in 5 people will develop cancer in their lifetime, and the experience is unique for each individual. Cancer includes more than 200 types of diseases, each requiring specific treatments, and each person's situation varies based on factors such as socioeconomic background, values, and preferences.
CEO of Touch The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, Ricki Fairley, stated that cancer can affect anyone, and the most effective approach is early detection. She also emphasized the importance of young people knowing their bodies and understanding that their bodies are a temple of God.
“Right now we are getting it at the younger ages and we are getting it at the late ages. It is so important for young people to talk to the families to understand the history and be aware of cancer because it is killing young people,” she said.
The Caretaker of Ankaase, Nana Atakora Bonsrah I, expressed his gratitude to Breast Care International and their partners for organizing sensitization and screening activities for the residents in the area to raise awareness about cancer.
He emphasized that creating awareness is the most effective way to prevent the disease and urged stakeholders in the health sector, as well as individuals and corporate organizations, to actively participate in the fight against cancer.

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