Young Progressive Network leads breast cancer awareness, health screening in Gbawe

As part of activities marking Pink October, the Young Progressive Network, in collaboration with the Magdee Global Foundation, the Assembly Member for the Gbawe East Electoral Area, Mr Benjamin Ken Lartey, and Unit Committee members, organised a breast cancer awareness and health screening exercise for residents of Gbawe in the Weija–Gbawe Municipality.

The programme, held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, aimed to educate the community on breast cancer, its early detection, and preventive measures, while also providing general health screening to promote healthy living among residents.

October is globally recognised as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing awareness, encouraging early screening, and supporting those affected by the disease. The organisers stressed that awareness creation and early detection remain crucial to reducing deaths caused by late diagnosis.

Speaking at the event, Mr Patrick Asford Boadu, convener of the Young Progressive Network, noted that breast cancer is not limited to women, as is often assumed.

“So long as one has breast tissue, they can be affected by breast cancer. That is why we are using this platform to educate both men and women on the importance of early detection and screening,” he said.

In addition to breast cancer education and screening, participants benefited from general health checks, including malaria testing, blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring, and other medical assessments.

To further support community health, the team organised a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration exercise for individuals with expired cards and those without any. The initiative aims to register over 300 residents within the municipality to enhance access to healthcare.

Supporting organisations such as Greenland Medical Supplies, located at Busia Junction near the Ghana Immigration Office, and Rockma Pharma Ghana Limited contributed medical supplies and logistical support to ensure the success of the event.

The initiative forms part of a broader campaign to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage early screening, and promote a healthier and more informed community in Weija–Gbawe.

Story by: Fati Ali Wehyemeh