Sonotech advocates more breast cancer screening
The Medical Director of Sonotech Medical and Diagnostic Centre, Dr Grace Buckman, has called on women to take advantage of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October to get screened.
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She said available statistics indicated that breast cancer was the second leading cause of cancer deaths, hence the need for women to get screened, as early detection saves lives.
Dr Buckman made the call on the sidelines of a United Breast Cancer Awareness walk organised by her Facility in Accra.
“From research, one (1) in eight (8) women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Undoubtedly, the statistics are very scary, and that is why we must all rise to the task of creating awareness.”
“Experts have it that women who get regularly screened for breast cancer have a 47 per cent lower risk of dying from the disease compared to those who do not. So take advantage of our free screening offers this whole month and get checked,” she said.
To help create more awareness, Sonotech Medical and Diagnostic Centre is running a month-long campaign to raise awareness and to highlight the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and on methods of prevention and early detection of breast cancer. The theme for the campaign is “RISE” meaning “Rally In Screening Everyone.”
“We hope to screen up to 500 women this year for free. Considering the financial burdens of many, we will once again offer 50 per cent discounts for all breast ultrasounds scans and 20 per cent discount on Mammograms throughout the month. This gesture of Sonotech has often brought some financial relief to many individuals and families, helping them to save some money for other needs,” she said.
She said there would be talks, sharing of educational materials on breast cancer prevention, regular screening for early detection and where to find help when needed.
“There will be TV, radio and social media engagements to educate the public on the disease. All branches of Sonotech and other partners will also be opened for free breast screening throughout the month,” she said.
She added that donations from the public and from partners would be presented to support the activities of the breast cancer Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to support their activities.