Dr Mrs Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Breast Care International (BCI), has cautioned parents and guardians against pressing the breasts of girls who they think are too young to develop breasts at their age.
She said the use of all manner of objects, including box iron, to press back the breasts as on the back of belief that it would make the girls promiscuous at that tender age.
Dr Wiafe said the practice was barbaric and could cause harm to their breast tissues, and they may lose one or both breasts when their breasts start developing.
Dr Wiafe was speaking at a free breast cancer education and screening as part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month celebration observed annually every October.
Dubbed: Kick Breast Cancer Out, it was organised by the BCI in collaboration with Delta Airlines, Ghana Chapter and Women in Aviation.
Dr Wiafe explained that the breast tissues could ooze out because of the act, thereby denying those females breasts when they grow up.
The breast surgeon said it was natural for the girls to develop the breasts at whatever age thus, those who did that should not think it was not the right time for them to develop breasts.
Again, the CEO of BCI asked those who bathe babies not to tamper with those with big breasts by pressing them down with hot water, among others as that one too is hereditary and will go by itself.
She advised parents to start monitoring the development of their daughters’ breasts for early breast cancer detection.
This, she said, would enable them to seek prompt treatment to save their lives.
Lately, girls, as young as 14 years, were developing the disease, thus, the need to know and examine their breasts monthly to help detect any change in case they developed breast cancer, she said.
They should do away with misconceptions and myths about the disease including seeing it as spiritual among other things and go to the hospital than sending patients to the Church, herbalists or mallams.
The CEO asked parents against using concoctions such as sand from under the mortar, insects locally known as “Kotokrodo” and others to treat the cancer.
She reiterated that the cause of breast cancer is not known but was quick to give some of the risk factors as one being a woman, hereditary, diet, excessive alcohol use and smoking.
Madam Cynthia Kukah, Treasurer, Women in Aviation International, Ghana Chapter said the event was a testament to the unwavering commitment of women in aviation international, Ghana Chapter empowering their fellow women, both within the industry and beyond.
We believe that true empowerment begins with prioritizing good health and overall well-being, she said, adding that Breast Cancer has a direct or indirect impact on everybody.
“Early detection and treatment are of utmost importance, yet many women face obstacles in accessing these crucial services, thus the Chapter is proud to always partner with Breast Care International and Delta Air Lines to bridge this gap.
Mrs Sarah Djabaki Annan, the Operations Service Manager, Delta Air Lines, said her outfit had supported the fight against breast cancer for the past 18 years.
“Our commitment to contributing to Ghana’s development is resolute and we believe in creating lasting impact. This annual breast cancer awareness event exemplifies our commitment to creating positive impact and fostering a healthier and more informed nation,” Mrs Annan said.
With an investment exceeding $20 million in the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, funding over 80 research projects; Delta stands in solidarity with employees, partners, and customers to create a lasting impact, she stated.
October is known worldwide as the month in which awareness is created about Breast Cancer Disease.
Pink ribbons are worn to honour survivors, remember those lost to the disease and support efforts at defeating breast cancer.
The occasion brought together men and women from Aviation Ladies, Immigration Service, Breast Cancer survivors and more.
Citations were given to key personalities for their immense contribution towards the fight against Breast Cancer.
GNA
