On 1st October 2026, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection officially launched this year’s ‘National Breast Cancer Awareness Month’, popularly known as Pink October, with a call for early detection, timely treatment and greater support for persons affected by breast cancer.
The launch, held in Ho — Volta Region, was organised under the theme “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” highlighting the different experiences of breast cancer patients and survivors and the need to respond to their medical, emotional, social and economic needs.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said breast cancer should not be viewed solely as health issue, as its impact extends to families, livelihoods, emotional well-being and participation in community life. She said the Ministry was particularly concerned about the social and economic factors that affect women and others who are diagnosed with the disease.
The Minister noted that Ghana records about 5,000 new cases of breast cancer annually, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths. She therefore stressed the importance of awareness, early detection, timely diagnosis and access to appropriate care in reducing the impact of the disease.
Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey also called for myths and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer to be addressed, noting that such beliefs can discourage people from going for screening and seeking medical support. She urged persons who detect symptoms or receive a diagnosis to seek medical treatment promptly, while other forms of support could complement medical care.
She further appealed to families and communities to avoid stigmatizing breast cancer patients and survivors and instead provide the support they need throughout their treatment and recovery. According to her, the personal stories shared shared by survivors at the launch demonstrate that behind the statistics are individuals with unique experiences, challenges and journeys.
Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey expressed appreciation to the Office of the Vice President for its support towards the campaign and acknowledged the commitment of the Government to ensuring that financial challenges do not prevent people from accessing needed healthcare. She cited the Ghana Medical Trust Fund as one of the initiatives supporting access to healthcare.
She also called on the media to use its platforms to sustain public education on breast cancer beyond the month of October and encouraged Ghanaians to become advocates for early detection, treatment and support throughout the year.
Solidarity messages delivered by representatives of the Office of the Vice President, Ghana Health Service, the Volta Regional Queen Mothers Association and the Breast Society of Ghana emphasised the importance of collective action, public education, early detection, access to treatment and sustained support for persons affected by breast cancer.
Activities included a breast cancer sensitisation walk involving schools and women groups, a presentation on breast health and demonstration of breast self examination, survivor testimonies, cultural performances and breast screening for participants.
The national Pink October campaign seeks to keep breast cancer awareness at the forefront of public attention while encouraging individuals to take proactive steps towards their breast health and promoting greater understanding and support for those affected by the disease.
