About 3,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Ghana each year, with nearly 2,000 deaths recorded annually. In response to these alarming statistics, the Telecel Foundation has launched a nationwide initiative to improve early detection and prevention of the disease.
As part of the programme, the Foundation has donated advanced cervical cancer screening equipment to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, and Sefwi Wiawso Government Hospital to support free screening services for women.
Speaking to Adom News, Director of External Affairs at the Telecel Foundation, Komla Boame, said the initiative aims to screen 10,000 women across the country.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it continues to claim the lives of about 1,500 women in Ghana every year,” Mr. Boame stated. “Through access to modern screening equipment and early detection, we hope to significantly reduce these preventable deaths.”
He explained that the equipment donation is part of Telecel Foundation’s broader commitment to public health and was launched during a Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign in partnership with Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Meanwhile, Professor Kwaku Asah-Opoku, Head of the Reproductive Health and Family Planning Unit at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, emphasized the importance of awareness, vaccination, and routine screening in preventing cervical cancer.
“Cervical cancer is preventable if the right steps are taken early,” Professor Asah-Opoku noted. “Women should undergo HPV screening every three to five years, continuing up to age 65 and beyond.”
He added that early symptoms are often subtle, making regular screening critical for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Health experts stress that sustained screening programmes, combined with public education, will play a key role in reducing cervical cancer-related deaths across Ghana.
ALSO READ:
Fire guts market and houses at Atonsu Bokro, renders hundreds homeless
Fire guts market and houses at Atonsu Bokro, renders hundreds homeless
