AGA mounts fight against breast and prostate cancers
As Ghana mounts a renewed fight against breast and prostate cancers, a mining firm, AngloGold Ashanti (AGA), Obuasi Mine, has taken the campaign to the doorsteps of the people of Akrokeri in the Adansi North District of the Ashanti region to stem the tide.
Beyond education, the company screened and offered support to more than 1,000 people while referring those with severe and advanced cases of the disease to major health facilities.
Advertisement
The exercise was done in collaboration with AGA Health Foundation, AGAMAL, GIZ, a German Corporation, Adansi North District Assembly, Adansi North Health Directorate and Akrokeri Traditional Council with support from the Otumfuo Foundation.
It was under the theme: “Early Detection for your Protection."
The initiative was part of the company's socio-economic plan to promote frequent health screening in its host communities.
The Stakeholder Engagement Superintendent of AGA, Mr. Edmund Oduro Agyei, said it was the priority of the company to ensure that the health of its host communities is secured.
According to him, the company will continue to provide quality healthcare not only to the people of Obuasi but to all communities in its catchment areas to ensure a sustainable future.
Galamsey
Mr Oduro Agyei pleaded with the traditional authorities to help halt the current rise of illegal mining activities at the mine's concession to ensure that the mine works without any destruction.
The District Chief Executive of the Adansi North District, Mr Eric Kwaku Kusi, indicated that about 2.26 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 alone out of which 685,000 died.
He said it was crucial to support women and save them from breasts.
Mr Kusi called for effective collaboration among all stakeholders to help intensify awareness of breast and prostate cancers and other health issues within the Adansi North District.
A representative of the Adansi North Health Directorate, Martha Denkyera, expressed worry about the increased rate of breast cancer cases in Ghana and urged all to undergo self breast examination and screening.
She advised all, especially women to exercise regularly and visit the hospital to ensure that their health was in better condition.
The Queen Mother of Akrokeri, Nana Serwaa Bruwaa II, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders especially AGA for bringing quality healthcare to the doorstep of the people.