Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the cells of the breast. Although mostly found in women, men can also get breast cancer. There are a number of symptoms associated with breast cancer, but the first noticeable symptom is often a lump or area of thickened breast tissue. A lump in the breast does not necessarily mean you have cancer - most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, it is always best to have them checked by your doctor. Treatment for breast cancer may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or bone-directed therapy.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and in most countries, is the most common cause of cancer among women. In Ghana, the incidence has been rising steadily due to increased life expectancy, changing reproductive patterns (such as later age at first childbirth) and less breast-feeding. According to a WHO report, 5,500 women die yearly in Ghana from cancer and 18.5% of this number is from breast cancer. (World Health Organization - Cancer Country Profiles, 2014.)

SG Cancer reached out to 1,000 persons (mostly women) on the streets of Osu, educating them on the need for breast self - exam. Breast self-exam (BSE), or regularly examining your breasts on your own, can be an important way to find breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be treated successfully. It is recommended that all women routinely perform breast self-exams as part of their overall breast cancer screening strategy.

The key message for the day was - early detection is critical and very necessary in fighting and surviving cancer. As a complement to this awareness program, SG Cancer is sponsoring mammograms for 10 women.

SG Cancer aims to provide comprehensive support for persons diagnosed with cancer – from counselling, information on resources, linking persons diagnosed with other cancer survivors, and in addition, provide some financial support for persons who are unable to afford the full cost of treatment. We also expect to increase cancer awareness in Ghana, encourage screening and early testing to improve survival rates, and encourage more people to provide support to persons diagnosed with cancer in a variety of ways, including financial.