The College of Health Sciences (CHS) of the University of Ghana has celebrated its 25th anniversary since its establishment by organizing a symposium on breast cancer awareness at the West African Genetic and Medicine Centre (WAGMC) on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
The event, held under the theme “African Genomics: Knowledge Gaps and Lessons from Breast Cancer,” aimed to sensitize the public about breast cancer and included a free breast cancer screening exercise.
In his address as Chairman of the event, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Professor Alfred Edwin Yawson, expressed deep concern about the steady rise in breast cancer cases in Ghana, noting that even men are affected.
“Ghana records about 4,800 cases of breast cancer annually. That is an increase from previous years and clearly shows how little knowledge the public has about the disease. Out of the total number of cases, about 0.1% are men. Men are also vulnerable to breast cancer,” he stated.
Professor Yawson further observed that superstitions and stigmatization in society contribute to the growing number of cases. He urged individuals suffering from breast cancer to seek prompt medical attention for early treatment.
“We live in a society filled with beliefs and superstitions. Women who suffer from breast cancer face a lot of stigma. How can another person who has witnessed it speak out? I would advise women to go for regular screening, and those diagnosed should visit the hospital for early detection and treatment,” he added.
Deputy Director of WAGMC and Founder of the NUFU Foundation, Dr. Lily Paemka, also expressed concern that many breast cancer patients complain of drug resistance. According to her, drug abuse alters human genes, leading to resistance. She therefore advised the public to avoid the misuse of both illegal and prescribed drugs.
“Many people abuse drugs. They take them in excess, causing a jam in the body system. The body and cells adapt to the drugs, rendering them ineffective. Sometimes these are the only drugs that can cure an illness, but due to abuse, they no longer work. I advise the public to stop abusing drugs and take them exactly as prescribed,” she cautioned.
Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA) at the University of Ghana, Dr. Merri Iddrisu, cautioned women against the use of artificial breast enhancements, stating that such practices could lead to serious health complications.
“Society today influences our thoughts. Many women opt for artificial breasts because of societal pressure and body shaming. Some even travel abroad for surgeries and medications to enhance their body parts. This can cause health complications later in life, including breast cancer. I advise women to avoid such practices, embrace their natural selves, and stay healthy,” she advised.
The event was also graced by other dignitaries, including Senior Lecturer at the Department of Sociology, Dr. Rosemond Hiadzi, and the Dean of the University of Ghana Medical School, Professor Yvonne Dei-Adomakoh, among others.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
