In October 2024, as has been tradition since 1985, the global community united in a vigorous campaign aimed at eradicating breast cancer. The month-long initiative, known as “Pink October,” seeks to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding breast cancer symptoms and treatment.
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women globally and led to over 670,000 deaths in 2022, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In solidarity with this year’s Pink October, members of the Ghanaian “Women in Forestry” group dedicated their final meeting of the year to discussions beyond professional development, focusing on cancers that affect women. The aim was to promote general health and well-being among the group’s members, who include professional foresters, forest governance advocates, legal experts on natural resources, and media practitioners reporting on forestry issues.
At their meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in Kumasi, members received an overview of gynecologic cancers, cancers affecting a woman’s reproductive organs. This includes cervical, ovarian, uterine (or endometrial), fallopian tube, vaginal, and vulvar cancers, which contribute to nearly 40% of all cancer cases and account for 30% of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, according to GLOBOCAN.
Presenting on these cancers, Mrs. Dorothy Anim, an oncology nurse from the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, noted that “Cervical cancer is the most common, representing approximately 57.8% of all gynecologic cancers. It is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, claiming about 342,000 lives globally each year.” She highlighted that Ghana has one of the highest incidences of cervical cancer globally.
Mrs. Anim explained that risk factors for gynecologic cancers include family history, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, HIV, smoking, alcohol use, and having multiple sexual partners. Common signs and symptoms include post-menopausal bleeding, irregular bleeding before menopause, abnormal vaginal discharge, abdominal bloating, and changes in skin colour.
Concluding her presentation, Mrs. Anim emphasised that prevention and successful treatment of gynecologic cancers are possible, particularly with awareness of risk factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding smoking, alcohol, and unsafe sexual practices. Regular screenings and awareness of symptoms are also key to early detection and improved outcomes.
This year’s Pink October theme, “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone,” underscored the importance of early detection, timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and support for those affected by breast cancer. In Ghana, over 4,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually, with half succumbing to the disease. Studies show that Ghanaian women often receive a diagnosis at advanced stages, increasing mortality risks. Additionally, research indicates that Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer at every age.
The observance of Pink October in Ghana this year also underscored the need for intensified awareness nationwide and across Africa, especially regarding breast and other cancers affecting women.
In addition to the health discussions, the Women in Forestry members were briefed on the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act of 2024. This Act seeks to increase women’s participation in public life, setting a minimum of 30% representation with a target of 50% by 2030.
Ann-Marie Palmer-Burkle from TaylorCrabbe Legal Firm discussed the establishment of a Gender Equality Committee under the Act. This committee will work with independent bodies, including the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, National Commission for Civic Education, National Media Commission, and the Electoral Commission, to ensure adherence to gender equality principles.
During an open discussion, members welcomed the Affirmative Action Act as a significant advancement for gender equality in Ghana, expressing optimism that the Gender Equality Committee will effectively fulfill its mandate.
By Ama Kudom-Agyemang
