This year's breast cancer awareness walk will be graced by the presence of chiefs, queen mothers, traditional authorities and other dignitaries to create the needed awareness of the disease.

The annual event, held every October 12, aims to reduce the fear and stigma against breast cancer patients, a devastating disease that claims the lives of many women in Ghana.

The participation of these respected leaders will help bring attention to this important cause and support efforts to find a cure.

"Our women are dying needlessly from a disease that is curable and survivable," Dr Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, President of Breast Care International told JoyNews.

According to Dr Wiafe-Addai, seeking medical attention early does not necessarily mean a mastectomy (removal of the breast) will be performed. Instead, the goal is to remove the tumour while preserving the breast, thereby saving the breast and promoting a better outcome for the patient.

Data from Breast Care International reveals a sobering trend: between 2021 and 2024, at least 8,000 breast cancer patients succumbed to the disease due to delayed hospital visits. This staggering number explains the critical importance of early detection and timely medical intervention in the fight against breast cancer.

"Though curable, many patients continue to succumb to breast cancer due to delay in seeking treatment. This is unacceptable," she said.

Dr Wiafe-Addai noted that misconceptions and myths surrounding breast cancer, including beliefs in witchcraft, continue to drive the high mortality rate.

However, she expressed hope that this year's walk, featuring prominent traditional leaders and stakeholders, can help shift the narrative and dispel harmful myths.