Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives
Posted Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 08:34:45 AM by Administrator
At New Crystal Hospital, we believe that every woman deserves the chance to live a healthy, confident, and full life. Breast cancer is one of the leading health challenges facing women across the world and Ghana is no exception. But the good news is that early detection and proper treatment save lives.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer happens when some cells in the breast grow abnormally and form a lump or tumour. If not detected early, these cells can spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more difficult. The disease usually begins in the milk ducts or lobules (the glands that produce milk).
It can affect women of any age, although the risk increases as a woman grows older. Men can also get breast cancer, though this is rare, accounting for about 1% of cases.
The Growing Concern
Globally, more than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, leading to over 670,000 deaths. In Ghana and across Africa, the disease is often diagnosed late because of low awareness, fear, or lack of regular screening.
In wealthier countries, women are more likely to survive breast cancer because of early detection and timely treatment. In many African settings, however, late presentation remains a major challenge. That’s why awareness, screening, and early diagnosis are at the heart of New Crystal Hospital’s women’s health programs.
Who Is at Risk?
Every woman is at risk, but certain factors increase the chances of developing breast cancer:
• Being female (99% of cases occur in women)
• Age — risk increases after 40 years
• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Overweight or obesity
• Alcohol consumption
• Early start of menstruation or late menopause
• Having no children or first pregnancy after age 30
• Hormonal therapies after menopause
However, about half of all women diagnosed have no known risk factor other than age and gender, which is why regular screening is essential for every woman.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
In the early stages, breast cancer may not show symptoms, that’s what makes regular self-checks and screenings so important. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling, redness, or rash on the breast skin
• Changes in the nipple or discharge (especially bloody)
• Pain or swelling that does not go away
If you notice any of these signs, see a healthcare professional immediately. At New Crystal Hospital, our doctors provide breast exams, ultrasound, mammography, and biopsy when needed.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Breast cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the individual’s overall health. A multidisciplinary approach is often used, combining surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted biological treatments to achieve the best outcomes.
• Surgery removes the tumour or affected breast tissue.
• Radiation therapy destroys any remaining cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy and hormonal therapy help stop the spread and lower the risk of recurrence.
Treatment is most successful when started early and completed as prescribed.
Hope Beyond Diagnosis
A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. That’s why New Crystal Hospital provides not just medical care, but also counselling, nutrition and guidance to help patients regain strength and confidence.
Early Detection Makes All the Difference
Regular breast self-examinations, yearly clinical breast checks, and screening, especially for women aged 40 and above are key to finding breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
At New Crystal Hospital, we’re supporting you with FREE breast screening and discounted mammogram (GHS 300) and breast ultrasound (GHS 200) services, along with expert care for every woman, whether you have symptoms or simply want to stay proactive about your health.
Visit any New Crystal Hospital branch or call 0544347239 / 0800180260 to book your breast screening today.