Vice Versa Media Ghana Partnering for Hope in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
Breast cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges affecting women globally. In Ghana, Vice Versa Media Ghana has joined forces with leading breast cancer advocates to amplify awareness and highlight the importance of collaboration in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. At the center of this fight is Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, a renowned consultant breast surgeon and Chief Executive Officer of Peace and Love Hospital. Her remarkable dedication to saving lives from breast cancer makes her an influential voice in this year’s breast cancer awareness campaign.
Dr Beatrice Waife the CEO Chief Executive Officer of Peace and Love Hospital.
A Defining Moment of Action
Dr. Beatrice Wiafe’s journey into breast cancer advocacy started in a male-dominated surgical ward, where she was often the only female surgeon. She recalls being deeply moved by the plight of women who came to her in the late stages of breast cancer. One patient, a 41-year-old mother, left a lasting impression: “She looked at me with fear in her eyes and said, ‘Doctor, I don’t want to die; I want to live to care for my children.’ It was devastating to see how far the cancer had spread. This patient, like many others, had no idea that a painless lump could be deadly.”
This experience ignited Dr. Wiafe’s passion to ensure no woman suffers due to ignorance. In 2002, she founded Breast Care International (BCI), dedicated to educating women about breast cancer, providing diagnosis and treatment, and offering a lifeline to those in need.
Dr Beatrice Waife at giving a speech at a breast Cancer Campaign program
The Impact of Breast Care International
Breast Care International has since become a beacon of hope for thousands of women. Through initiatives like “Kick Breast Cancer Out” and “Pink Market Day,” BCI provides free screenings, community outreach programs, and educational workshops. These efforts have saved the lives of over 10,000 women who might have otherwise faced tragedy.
“As an NGO, we rely heavily on the generosity of compassionate individuals and partners,” Dr. Wiafe shares. “Thanks to their support, we’ve trained doctors and nurses to conduct clinical breast exams, allowing us to extend screenings to rural communities. Awareness has grown significantly, and more women are getting screened, but there is still much work to be done.”
One of the many success stories Dr. Wiafe shared is that of a 13-year-old girl diagnosed with an aggressive tumor. “We had no choice but to perform a double mastectomy. She had to drop out of school temporarily, but today, at 18, she has not only returned to school but completed junior high. Her story underscores the life-saving importance of early detection.”
Breast Care International Women on a walk float
A Fight Against Misconceptions About Breast Cancer
In Ghana, like in many parts of Africa, cultural beliefs and misconceptions about breast cancer pose significant barriers to early detection and treatment. Dr. Wiafe notes, “Many still believe breast cancer is caused by witchcraft or curses, and that delays seeking treatment until it’s too late.”
To address this, BCI has adopted a multifaceted approach. “We engage religious leaders in our outreach programs to help dispel these myths. If pastors understand that breast cancer is a medical condition, they can guide their congregants to seek timely treatment.”
Dr. Wiafe emphasizes the importance of starting awareness campaigns early. “We must educate young girls in schools to know their bodies. Generational education is essential to combat ignorance. The key message is: breast cancer isn’t caused by witchcraft, but by a lack of awareness.”
Breast Care International Engaging with religious Figures
Dynamic Education: Bridging the Gap Between Awareness and Action
Despite years of advocacy, many women still hesitate to get screened. Dr. Wiafe believes this stems from a gap between awareness and action. “Education must be dynamic. Every day, a girl somewhere turns into an adult, so our approach must evolve. We take our education to schools, churches, and marketplaces. We even organize Pink Market Days, where women can get screened while going about their daily activities. Making screenings accessible saves lives.”
BCI’s grassroots efforts have empowered thousands of women to prioritize their health, breaking down barriers of accessibility and making breast cancer screening part of everyday life.
Breast Care International on a Campaign
The Role of the Media in Breast Cancer Awareness
Dr. Wiafe recognizes the power of the media in the fight against breast cancer. “Many women come to us because they’ve heard about breast cancer on the radio or TV. The media has a tremendous influence and can save lives by spreading awareness.”
She calls for increased media coverage, likening the urgency of breast cancer awareness to the global response to COVID-19. “When COVID-19 hit, we rallied to save lives. We need the same level of urgency for breast cancer, which claims more than 2,300 lives annually in Ghana.”
Dr. Waife and other breast Cancer advocates
Engaging Men in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
One groundbreaking initiative by Vice Versa Media Ghana this year is the “Men Leading the Charge” dialogue, scheduled for October 17, 2024, as part of the Xspace series. Dr. Wiafe applauds this effort, emphasizing the need for men to be involved in the fight against breast cancer.
“Breast cancer affects families, not just the woman diagnosed. It’s a developmental and economic issue. Men need to stand by their wives, sisters, and loved ones during this battle. No one should face breast cancer alone.”
The Xspace dialogue will bring together advocates and men with personal connections to breast cancer, shedding light on the critical role men can play in supporting their loved ones through this journey.
Dr. Waife at a durbar
A Call for Collective Effort
The fight against breast cancer is ongoing, but with collective action, we can make a difference. Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Breast Care International, and Vice Versa Media Ghana’s efforts serve as powerful examples of how awareness, education, and collaboration can save lives. However, the journey is far from over. It requires dynamic strategies and the involvement of everyone to ensure that no one faces breast cancer alone.
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