She said it was imperative to stand together, shoulder to shoulder, to bridge the gaps in awareness, access to health care and support for those affected by the disease. 
“Beyond the numbers of breast cancer, we must recognise the countless individuals and families who are affected by this disease. 

It is a life-changing experience,” she stated at the launch of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month of The Trust Hospitals and Clinics, dubbed “the Trust Hospital Pink October Awareness Campaign” in Accra yesterday.

She noted that the theme, "Managing together to close the care gap”, underscored the fact that no single entity could tackle the complex issue of breast cancer alone.

Prof.Amfo said it was crucial to understand the emotional, physical and financial toll that breast cancer takes on individuals as it was not just a health issue but a societal one that affected the fabric of our communities.

“By acknowledging this impact, we can better appreciate the urgency of our collective efforts to address breast cancer,” she added.

Role

Prof.Amfo said universities played a critical role in driving awareness and research in health.

The university’s researchers at Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) have dedicated themselves to advancing knowledge about the disease, exploring new treatment options and enhancing early detection methods.

“Education is a powerful tool and it empowers individuals to take charge of their health.

By educating ourselves and others, we break down barriers of fear and ignorance and equip individuals with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health,” she stated. 

The Chief Executive Officer of Trust Hospital, Dr Juliana Ameh, said the significance of the event was to provide care, advocate and conduct research on the health and well-being of women who have the highest rate of breast cancer diagnosis.

“The importance of women who constitute more than half of the adult population to socioeconomic development means that businesses, enterprises, policymakers and nonprofits must work together to build a formidable coalition against this threat to women’s lives and livelihood,” she explained.

Dr Ameh noted that the hospital had launched a multidisciplinary specialist service “The Trust Cancer Care Service” that comprises of various oncology services and the cancer care academy where clinical conversations and training are provided to diverse healthcare practitioners.

Activities A team member at the Trust Hospital Wellness Clinic, Dr Nancy Rose Sabaa, said series of activities would take place to celebrate the breast cancer awareness month. 

This, she said, included breast screening in all Trust Hospitals and neighboring communities, breast cancer awareness walk, summit for survivors to share their experience and stakeholder’s day to brainstorm ways everyone can contribute to managing breast cancer.