Hundreds walk to create awareness on cancer

A section of the participants at the walk

Hundreds of cancer survivors embarked on a walk in some parts of Accra to raise awareness on the disease and its effects on victims and their relatives.

The event, organised by the Cancer Support Network Foundation (CSNF), com­menced from the Accra Girls Senior High School near the 37 Military Hospital, winding its way through major streets in the area.

Participants actively engaged in the cause by displaying placards bearing inspirational messages, em­phasising the urgent need to combat cancer.

This collective effort was not confined to the streets, as street vendors and drivers stuck in traffic were handed informational flyers detailing crucial facts about cancer.

The outreach extended to fuel attendants along the streets, ensuring that even those outside the immediate walking path were educat­ed about the significance of cancer awareness.

This holistic approach aligns with the CSNF’s broader mission to dissem­inate knowledge and foster a culture of understanding regarding the disease.

The initiative, part of the NGO’s activities in obser­vance of World Cancer Aware­ness Month, held annually in February, garnered appreci­ation from participants and onlookers alike.

The President of the CSNF, Mr Akwesi Osei Owusu, ex­pressed gratitude to everyone who joined hands to make the day impactful.

He reserved special appreciation for the found­er of the NGO, Dr Juliet Appiah Quansah, a Medical Oncologist whose unwavering commitment has been pivotal in supporting cancer patients in Ghana, especially those facing financial barriers to treatment.

During the event, Ms Raissa Sambou, an executive member of the CSNF, touched on the importance of taking cancer screening seriously.

Drawing from her personal experience as a cancer sur­vivor, Ms Sambou mentioned the significance of early detection in effective treat­ment.

She also urged the public not to wait until it was too late, as delaying diagnosis could worsen the condition and reduce the likelihood of successful treatment.

Ms. Sambou called on the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to adopt a preven­tive approach in dealing with cancer, advocating for increased access to screening and treatment centers across the nation, especially in rural communities.

Her plea was rooted in the belief that enhancing accessibility would ultimate­ly contribute to saving lives and reducing the impact of cancer on individuals and communities.

 BY Raissa Sambou