The Deputy Director General of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), Prof. Francis Hassford, has revealed that about 30,000 confirmed cancer cases are reported each year in Ghana, with half the number being critical cases.

He made these revelations at the 2025 Cancer Awareness Campaign Walk to raise awareness and provide education about breast and prostate cancers and to encourage early detection and preventive measures.

The walk, jointly organised by the GAEC Hospital and the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI), GAEC, was on the theme, “Screen Today, Live Tomorrow”, and it forms part of the Commission’s sustained efforts to combat cancer through research, education, and public engagement.

The walk, which began at the premises of the GAEC Hospital in Kwabenya and stretched through major streets in the Ga East Municipality, witnessed hundreds of people joining GAEC for the campaign.

It attracted participants from corporate organisations, academic institutions, media houses, health agencies, and members of the general public.

Speaking to the media at the event, Prof. Hasford reaffirmed GAEC’s commitment to community health improvements, emphasising that cancer is not a death sentence when detected early.

“The completion of this walk does not mark the end of the screening program. The GAEC hospital is open to the public and you can walk in any day to get tested”, he added.

He highlighted the importance of men and women over 40 years of age undergoing screening at least once every year to help with early detection.

“Treatment becomes very difficult when the cancer is detected late”, he said.

The Ag. Director of the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, GAEC, Dr Theodosia Adom, also stressed the importance of broadening the scope of screening and awareness creation to cover more areas this year.

“This awareness campaign builds on GAEC’s successful 2024 initiative, which provided free breast cancer screening to over 1,500 individuals and engaged communities, corporate bodies, and the media”, she revealed.

Participants at the walk carried placards with messages such as “Get Screened, Save a Life” and “Men, Know Your Prostate Status.”

The vibrant procession also featured sharing leaflets with important health information in addition to brief stops at the Kwabenya market and along the streets, where GAEC workers and health professionals sensitised the public on lifestyle choices, symptoms, and the importance of regular screening.