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Ghana fears decline in breast cancer screening

By , based on 3News

Ghana fears decline in breast cancer screeningIllustrative image · Klaus Nielsen · Pexels · Licence Pexels

Reported breast cancer cases in Ghana’s Eastern Region fell from 289 in 2023 to 117 in 2025, with 99 cases recorded in the first half of 2026. Regional Health Director Damien Punguyire warns that fear and misconceptions are delaying screening, 3News reports.

The Ghana Eastern Regional Health Directorate fears that the decline in reported breast cancer cases is masking a fall in screening and an increase in late diagnoses. Health facilities recorded 289 cases in 2023, 150 in 2024 and 117 in 2025; 99 cases had been reported by the end of June 2026, according to 3News.

The Regional Director of Health, Dr Damien Punguyire, attributed the situation to fear, shame and misconceptions keeping women away from screening. He called for greater awareness to detect tumours before they spread, which reduces the chances of survival, according to 3News.

Public health specialist Abigail Doduwah Sackey also stressed the need for early screening and prompt care. The warning comes after the launch of the 2026 breast cancer campaign in Ghana on 2 October and screening operations for Ghanaian policewomen on 24 October.

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