Medical Officer at the University of Ghana Health Services Directorate, Dr. Alexandra Holdbrook, has issued a timely reminder about the importance of recognizing the early signs of breast cancer.
Speaking on the Good Health show on Radio Univers on October 16, 2025, Dr. Holdbrook highlighted several symptoms that should prompt immediate medical attention.
“For the signs and symptoms, basically you check if there is any form of change with the skin of your breast,” she explained.
“If you notice reddening on any area of your breast skin or experience nipple discharge—especially depending on the colour—it could be a potential sign of breast cancer.”
She added that not all cases present with a breast lump. In some instances, the first sign could be swelling in the armpit caused by the presence of lymph nodes.
“It may not always be a lump in the breast. Swelling in your armpit could also be the first indication,” she noted.
Dr. Holdbrook emphasized that early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and called on women to perform regular self-examinations and consult healthcare providers when in doubt.
Fellow Medical Officer, Dr. Grace Vida Yobo, also contributed to the conversation, shifting the focus to the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany a breast cancer diagnosis.
She pointed out that stigma remains a major issue, with many patients fearing social exclusion or being treated differently once diagnosed.
“We just don’t dish out diagnosis,” Dr. Yobo stated.
“Having a chronic illness or cancer is a very big deal. When a patient is diagnosed with breast cancer, we do not just throw diagnosis results at them.”
She stressed that all healthcare professionals at the Health Services Directorate are trained in how to break difficult news compassionately, and that psychological support is readily available.
“If you need a psychologist or a psychiatrist, we have a department where we can offer counselling and mental health support. Patients are not left to go through these hard times alone,” she assured.
Dr. Yobo also underscored the vital role of family and friends in a patient’s healing journey.
“Support from loved ones goes a long way in helping patients through treatment and recovery,” she noted.
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Story by Irene Naapog Dontah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
