Media Must Play a Key Role in the Fight Against Breast Cancer – Dr. Wiafe Addai

At a two-day oncology training workshop held in Kumasi for journalists from the Eastern Region, Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, CEO of Peace and Love Hospitals and Founder of Breast Care International, called on media professionals to take a more active role in the fight against breast cancer.

“The media must rise to the occasion,” Dr. Wiafe Addai urged. “We cannot win this battle without informed and compassionate communication. You are the voice of the people—use that voice to educate, advocate, and hold stakeholders accountable.”

She expressed concern over the high number of late-stage cancer diagnoses, which significantly hinder treatment outcomes and reduce survival rates. “Early detection is crucial, but many patients only seek help when the disease has already advanced. This is often due to a lack of awareness and limited access to clean environments and proper healthcare—challenges that are especially pronounced in the Eastern Region,” she explained.

Dr. Wiafe Addai referenced a study conducted in collaboration with the University for Development Studies (UDS) and sponsored by Teva Pharmaceuticals. The research revealed that water bodies in parts of the Eastern Region have been heavily contaminated by toxic chemicals used in illegal mining activities. She identified this pollution as a major factor contributing to the rise in breast cancer cases, particularly in communities near mining sites.

In conclusion, Dr. Wiafe Addai appealed to the government, civil society, non-governmental organizations, and philanthropists to invest in local research. She emphasized the importance of homegrown studies that retain data within the country and directly serve Ghanaian communities, as opposed to foreign-led research whose findings often benefit external interests.