Breast cancer awareness: Midwife urges regular self-examination and early detection

A midwife at the Manhyia District Hospital, Hajia Memuna Ezzedin Muntaka, has urged women and girls to make regular breast self-examination a priority to improve early detection and increase the chances of successful treatment of breast cancer.

She says early identification of unusual changes in the breast and prompt medical attention are critical to preventing the disease from becoming life-threatening.

Hajia Memuna, wife of the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, made the call during a breast cancer awareness programme at Serwaa Nyarko Girls Senior High School in Kumasi.

The Founder of MEM Roots of Vitality Foundation educated the students on the warning signs of breast cancer and encouraged them to take responsibility for their health by examining their breasts regularly and seeking professional medical advice whenever they notice abnormalities.

“I urge each and every one of us to do a self-breast examination frequently, at least once a month. You can take a few minutes of your time to examine your breast so that if you see any abnormality, it can be detected early enough for us to do something about it to save your life,” she said.

Hajia Memuna stressed the need to engage the students, describing them as important channels for spreading life-saving information to their families and communities.

“Whatever information they get here from what we discuss, they will be able to communicate it back home to our mothers, our fathers and our siblings. So, they are a good source of communicators,” she added.

Some of the students said the programme had equipped them with knowledge about breast cancer, including how to recognise possible warning signs and the importance of reporting unusual changes to a trusted adult or seeking medical attention.

One student said the awareness session had taught her the importance of breast examination and acting promptly when symptoms were detected.

“We also have to do breast examination to detect early symptoms and signs of breast cancer,” Eunice said.

Another student, Beatrice, urged her colleagues not to ignore possible warning signs, stressing the need to inform a parent, guardian or health professional when they notice unusual changes.

The students said they would share the information with their peers and families to help improve awareness and encourage early medical intervention.

The programme was sponsored by the MEM Roots of Vitality Foundation as part of efforts to promote breast cancer awareness and encourage early detection among girls and women.

Health professionals advise that anyone who notices a new lump, unusual swelling, changes in breast shape or skin, or nipple abnormalities should seek medical assessment promptly.

While such changes do not always indicate cancer, early evaluation is essential.

The campaign highlights the importance of sustained public education, accessible cancer services and collective action to improve outcomes for people affected by breast cancer.