Accra: Mrs Maame Efua Houadjeto, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has made a heartfelt appeal to women across the nation to prioritize their health by engaging in regular medical check-ups, with a strong focus on cancer screening. Speaking at a breast cancer awareness and screening exercise organized by the GTA in Accra, Mrs Houadjeto highlighted the critical importance of early screening for the timely detection of breast cancer.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs Houadjeto emphasized the urgency of early detection in combating breast cancer, stating, “Some people don’t even get the urgency to come and check. Time is so important, because the earlier it is noticed, the better it is for you. When it is noticed early, something can be done to save you. But when it gets to stage three or four, then you are a goner.”
The event offered free medical screenings for breast cancer, blood pressure, diabetes, and other essential health checks. It was well-attended by GTA staff, breast cancer survivors, tourism stakeholders, and medical professionals from the Ablade Medical Center.
Mrs Houadjeto addressed the uncertainty surrounding the causes of breast cancer, acknowledging that while unverified theories have suggested links to deodorant use and microwaving food, the exact causes remain unknown. She urged women to maintain regular health checks irrespective of these theories.
In addition to promoting health screenings, Mrs Houadjeto recognized the significant roles women play in their families and communities. She encouraged women to take advantage of the free screenings and to invite others to participate, stressing the importance of checking not only for breast cancer but also for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
‘Call a friend, a sister, a mother, let them come. It is not just our breasts. We get tired as women. Check your blood pressure. Sometimes we do not even know when we have diabetes,’ she said.
Mrs Houadjeto further stated that the GTA will continue to support public health initiatives aimed at protecting and empowering women, emphasizing that a healthy nation begins with healthy homes.
Madam Comfort Owusu, a former staff member of GTA and a breast cancer survivor, shared her personal journey with breast cancer, highlighting the life-saving impact of early detection. Though she had to undergo a mastectomy, she has lived a normal life for the past 15 years and is now actively engaged in advocacy and counseling for women in similar conditions.
Mrs Houadjeto pledged support for Madam Owusu’s advocacy efforts and for women affected by cancer. She announced a shift in planned donations to support Madam Owusu’s initiatives, recognizing her dedication to helping others.
Madam Owusu expressed her gratitude for the unexpected support from the GTA, stating, ‘Sometimes I do not even have food, but I have to give out the little I have to help others. I am so grateful. I never expected this.’