Community Health First: Abuakwa Residents Screened for Breast Cancer, Diabetes, and Hypertension
Hundreds of residents in Abuakwa, a vibrant community in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality of the Ashanti Region, have benefitted from a comprehensive free health screening exercise aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of diseases. The event, organized by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Wisdom Boamah, in collaboration with the Anigyeɛ Fun Club, formed part of activities to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The well-patronized exercise brought together health professionals, traditional leaders, and community members, including market women, artisans, drivers, students, and the aged, who underwent screening for various health conditions such as breast cancer, diabetes, hypertension, malaria, and other lifestyle-related diseases.
In his address, Hon. Wisdom Boamah underscored the importance of preventive healthcare and called on residents to make regular medical check-ups part of their daily lives. He noted that most illnesses could be easily managed or completely prevented if detected early. “Take good care of your health to avoid future illnesses. Regular medical check-ups help detect diseases early, making treatment easier and more effective,” he advised.
The MCE expressed his appreciation to the Anigyeɛ Fun Club for their collaborative efforts in organizing the exercise, describing it as a laudable community initiative that complements government’s broader vision of promoting quality healthcare delivery at the grassroots level. He further assured the people of Abuakwa and the entire municipality of his administration’s commitment to supporting similar outreach programs to ensure that healthcare becomes accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
The Queen Mother of Nkawie Kumaa, Ohene Yere Adoma Akosua, who graced the event, added her voice to the MCE’s call for regular medical check-ups. She emphasized that frequent hospital visits and medical screenings are essential for maintaining good health and identifying potential illnesses before they become severe. “Go to the hospital for screening every month to know your illness status for easy identification and early treatment,” she urged.
Health professionals on site educated participants on the importance of early diagnosis and healthy living. Demonstrations on breast self-examination techniques were conducted, and educational leaflets were distributed to create awareness on breast cancer and other preventable diseases. The screening team also offered counseling to participants whose results indicated potential health risks, referring them to nearby health facilities for further assessment and treatment.
Residents who took part in the exercise expressed their deep gratitude to Hon. Wisdom Boamah and the Anigyeɛ Fun Club for organizing the free screening. Many participants said the initiative was a timely intervention, especially for low-income earners who find it difficult to afford regular medical tests. Some described the event as a life-saving opportunity that would encourage them to pay more attention to their health.
The exercise not only provided healthcare services but also strengthened the sense of community solidarity and public awareness on the importance of preventive medicine. Hon. Boamah reiterated that the health of residents remains a top priority for the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipal Assembly and assured that such health-focused initiatives would be extended to other communities within the municipality.
The free health screening at Abuakwa ultimately reinforced the message that community health is a shared responsibility, calling on individuals, traditional leaders, and local organizations to work hand in hand with the government to promote a healthier, more resilient population.
