FWSC, GAEC advocate early breast cancer detection

THE Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has held a breast cancer awareness seminar for its staff, as part of its wellness programme and commitment to promoting a healthy workforce.

The seminar, held at the Commission’s headquarters, brought together health experts from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission GAEC and the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital to educate staff on the importance of early detection, prevention, and management of breast cancer.

In her opening remarks, the Director, Performance Management of the FWSC, Dr Baaba Anquandah emphasised the Commission’s dedication to the well-being of its staff.

“We recognize that a healthy workforce is essential to our productivity and effectiveness. Today’s seminar is a testament to our commitment to promoting health awareness and supporting our staff in their overall wellness journey.”

A Principal Scientist at GAEC, Dr Adolf Kofi Awua, delivered a comprehensive presentation on breast cancer, highlighting risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.

The Resident Radiologist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr Afua Amoa-Mensah, stressed the importance of regular breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, and screening.

“Early detection is key to surviving breast cancer,” Dr Amoa-Mensah emphasised. “We urge all women, particularly those aged 40 and above, to undergo annual mammography screening and clinical breast examinations.

Speaking on prostate cancer, a Senior Medical Physicist at GAEC, Dr Issahaku Shirazu, emphasised the importance of regular prostate cancer screening, citing the alarming statistics in cases among Ghanaian men.

“Early detection is crucial for effective treatment,” he said.

The seminar included a question-and-answer session, during which staff asked insightful questions and shared personal experiences.

To further demonstrate its commitment the medical team later offered a breast screenings and counseling services for staff.

The breast cancer awareness seminar was well-received by staff, who expressed gratitude for the Commission’s investment in their health and well-being.

Esther Odei Opong from the Procurement Unit of FWSC said she learnt about the importance of lifestyle choices. “It is important to take control of our health by limiting alcohol consumption, eating whole foods, exercising regularly, and knowing our family history to reduce breast cancer risk and enhance overall well-being.”

Another officer in the accounts department of FWSC, Isaac Entsua Mensah said, “he was happy the medical experts debunked common myths about prostate cancer, and noted that frequent sex does not prevent prostate cancer. Instead, focus on proven prevention methods like healthy diets, exercise, and regular check-ups.”