The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah, has called for collective action in the fight against breast cancer.
Mr. Danquah emphasized that the effort to reduce the prevalence of breast cancer-related deaths should not be limited to women alone.
“While women are the most directly diagnosed by it, men are also at risk. Indeed, the consequences affect entire communities, families, and households. This is why women should not be the only ones at the forefront of it,” he stated.
Mr. Danquah made these remarks during the launch of the Petroleum Ladies Association’s (PELA) Breast Cancer Awareness campaign month, also known as “Pinktober.”
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women globally, accounting for 12.5 percent of all new annual cancer cases worldwide.
In developing countries like Ghana, it is even more prevalent, representing approximately 50 percent of all cancer cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in about 685,000 deaths worldwide.
Every October, GNPC’s PELA joins the global community in raising awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The corporation has organized a month-long campaign aimed at educating both GNPC staff and the public about the importance of early screening, early detection, and offering support to those affected.
Mr. Danquah reiterated GNPC’s commitment to promoting health among its staff and the general public, especially in light of reports indicating that many Ghanaian women are diagnosed with advanced breast cancer.
He emphasized the importance of this year’s global theme, “Thrive365,” which underscores the idea that individuals affected by breast cancer can not only survive but thrive in their daily lives.
The GNPC CEO encouraged everyone, including fathers, husbands, brothers, sons, healthcare providers, and all stakeholders, to unite with women and actively participate in creating breast cancer awareness.
As the fight against breast cancer continues, the GNPC and its leadership have taken a prominent role in raising awareness and advocating for early detection and prevention.