VOLTA FDA OFFICE ORGANIZES BREAST CANCER EDUCATION FOR STAFF

The Volta Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) on the 12th of October organized a one-day education at its premises on the dangers associated with breast cancer. The staff, especially females, were entreated to examine their breast regularly for early detection and possible treatment, as the consequences of late detection of breast cancer could be devastating.

Leading the campaign, the Volta Regional Administrator, who doubles as an advocate against breast cancer, Madam Patience Nutakor, hinted that contrary to the assertion that the disease affects only females, research has shown that breast cancer can occur in both men and women, though it is far more common in women. According to her, men account for about one percent (1%) of reported cases of breast cancers.

Touching on the symptoms, she strongly advised that participants look out for a breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissues, change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast, whiles changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling must not be over looked.

She also stressed on appearance of a newly invented nipple, peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple and redness or pitting of the skin over the breast as early warning signs that must not be taken for granted.

Madam Nutakor emphasized that the cancer development spans from stage zero to the fourth stage. She noted that the disease could be managed well if it is identified early enough at the first stage as late detection could be fatal.

Answering questions on causes of the disease, the Regional Head noted that, researchers have identified hormonal, lifestyle and environmental factors as some of the elements that may increase the risk of breast cancer and therefore charged the staff to be watchful of certain lifestyles such as smoking, unbridled usage of contraceptives, especially by young girls, inactivity and others as they could lead to the development of cancer.

She was however, emphatic about the need for early detection as it is the best way to manage breast cancer.

On his part, the Regional Head, Mr. Gorden Akurugu advised the males among the staff to show keen interest regarding the issue of breast cancer and advised the married ones not just to enjoy their partners breast, but take time to examine them regularly as the disease if not detected early, could deny them a lifetime pleasure whiles bringing the lives of the women to a halt.

The enthusiasm of the staff at the workshop was encouraging, as they turned up in their numbers and asked relevant questions on the subject matter.