NPA launches Pink October campaign to drive early screening for breast, prostate cancers
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has called for greater public awareness and early action in the fight against breast and prostate cancers as it launched its Pink October Campaign.
The campaign, which seeks to promote early screening, diagnosis and treatment, is being held under the theme, “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters.”
The launch brought together health professionals, cancer survivors, management and staff of the NPA, as well as representatives of sister-agencies.
The NPA Chief Executive, Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, Esq., stressed the importance of sustained public education in helping people recognise the need for early detection.
He urged individuals and institutions to play an active role in creating awareness and supporting people to make informed decisions about their health.
The NPA Deputy Chief Executive, Dr. Sheila Addo, expressed appreciation to management for backing the initiative and encouraged staff to participate fully in the campaign.
She further urged stakeholders to sustain discussions on cancer beyond the month of October, noting the importance of keeping awareness efforts ongoing.
The Chairperson and Special Guest of Honour, Hajia Shamima Muslim, Deputy Government Spokesperson, drew attention to the scale of cancer-related cases and deaths in Ghana.
According to figures she cited from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Ghana recorded 5,487 cancer cases and 2,695 deaths in 2024.
She called for stronger support for people living with cancer and their families, while encouraging the public to reject stigma and seek medical attention as early as possible.
Hajia Shamima Muslim subsequently declared the campaign officially launched.
Focus on prostate health and prevention
Beyond the formal launch, the campaign featured discussions aimed at providing participants with practical information on cancer prevention and healthier lifestyles.
Dr. Rebecca Nortey of the University of Ghana Medical Centre addressed prostate health, with emphasis on risk factors, screening and the importance of obtaining timely medical advice.
Nutritionist and University of Health and Allied Sciences lecturer, Dr. Helena Nti, also spoke about nutrition and lifestyle choices, highlighting their role in overall wellbeing and preventive healthcare.
The sessions formed part of the NPA’s broader effort to make cancer awareness more practical by equipping people with information they can use to make healthier choices.
Survivors share personal journeys
Personal accounts from cancer survivors added another dimension to the campaign.
Madam Maud Lokko, a breast cancer survivor, shared her experience of receiving a diagnosis, undergoing treatment and eventually recovering.
Her story highlighted the importance of resilience, access to care and the support of people around those going through treatment.
Mr. Phillip Annan, a prostate cancer survivor, also spoke about his experience with the disease.
He emphasised the importance of early detection and the role played by family and loved ones during the cancer journey.
The survivor testimonies reinforced the campaign’s focus on the individual experiences behind cancer statistics and the need for people to seek help without allowing fear or stigma to delay medical attention.
Through the Pink October Campaign, the NPA is seeking to encourage a stronger culture of screening, early diagnosis and open conversations about cancer.
The Authority also hopes the initiative will help promote compassion towards patients and survivors while encouraging continued public education beyond the October campaign period.
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