FirstBank Ghana is marking Pink October, the global Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with a special event aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting education on early detection and treatment. The event, held at the Bank’s head office annex in Cantonments, Accra, was organized by FirstBank’s Women Network and brought together key stakeholders, including the medical community.
The theme of this year’s campaign, “No-one Should Face Breast Cancer Alone,” aligns with FirstBank’s commitment to supporting health initiatives that improve the well-being of Ghanaians. The focus of the event was to encourage women to undergo screening and to educate them on the importance of early treatment.
During the event, Mr. Benjamin Sena Fenu, a specialist surgeon from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, highlighted the significance of regular check-ups and self-examinations. He explained, “Breast cancer is a disease where abnormal breast cells grow out of control. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to saving lives.” He also discussed risk factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, hereditary factors, early menstruation, and late menopause.
A touching moment came when Mrs. Georgina Kumah-Dzagah, Licensed Counsellor and Executive Secretary of the Breast Society of Ghana, shared her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor. Her testimony inspired the audience and emphasized the need for open discussions about breast cancer.
Mrs. Grace Isaac-Aryee, Chairperson of FirstBank’s Women Network, stressed the importance of supporting individuals affected by breast cancer and encouraged everyone to get screened, saying, “Early detection saves lives.”
The event concluded with an interactive session addressing common misconceptions about breast cancer, exploring treatment options, and providing guidance on how to support loved ones facing the disease.
According to the Breast Society of Ghana, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in Ghana, with 5,026 new cases and 2,369 deaths recorded in 2022. The disease primarily affects women aged 40 to 49, but it can also strike younger women in their 20s. Risk factors include gender, age, alcohol consumption, and lifestyle choices.
FirstBank Ghana, a subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, continuing its legacy of community support across Africa.
