Family physician specialist and team lead for the Pink October campaign at the University of Ghana, Dr. Gifty Odame, has revealed that it is possible to have breast cancer even without a noticeable lump in the breast.
Speaking on the Good Health show on Radio Univers, Dr. Odame addressed a common misconception about breast cancer diagnosis.
“What people believe—that breast cancer is only about having a lump—is not true,” she explained. “You can still have breast cancer without a noticeable lump in the breast.”
Dr. Odame emphasized that relying solely on the presence of a lump may delay diagnosis and treatment, as the disease can manifest in other subtle ways.
“That is a misconception,” she reiterated. “You can have breast cancer even without an obvious lump in the breast.”
She stressed the need for public education and proactive health behavior.
“That is why we need to create awareness,” she said. “It is good to check in with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breast.”
Highlighting the importance of early detection and continuous awareness creation, Dr. Odame noted that these remain critical strategies for reducing the impact of breast cancer in communities.
“Early detection is one of the ways to reduce the impact of breast cancer,” she said.
Dr. Odame also shared a message of hope for those diagnosed with the disease.
“Being diagnosed with breast cancer is not the end of the world,” she said. “Many people have survived, especially when it is detected early and managed properly.”
She encouraged all women to perform regular breast self-examinations and to seek medical attention if they notice any unusual changes, adding that early intervention can significantly improve survival rates.
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Story by Sandra Moses | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
