Together, we can conquer breast cancer” – Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai calls for global unity at BCI Walk for the Cure 2025 in Kumasi
Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, President of Breast Care International (BCI), has reiterated the importance of collective effort in the battle against breast cancer, asserting that “we can indeed defeat breast cancer” through sustained awareness, education, and early detection.
Speaking to a large crowd during the 13th annual BCI Walk for the Cure at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, she emphasized the need for ongoing commitment to the cause.
The event, themed “A Cure Worth Fighting For,” attracted participants from various countries including Morocco, the United States, the Netherlands, Yemen, and France, as well as individuals from across Ghana.
The diverse crowd included school children, market women, security personnel, representatives from civil society organizations, religious leaders, and traditional authorities, all united in the vibrant procession that celebrated the determination to eradicate breast cancer.
Dr. Wiafe Addai, who has championed the BCI initiative for over 20 years, highlighted that education is the most powerful weapon against the misconceptions and fears surrounding breast cancer.
“We must continue to educate our women,” she urged, clarifying, “Breast cancer is a medical issue, not something caused by witchcraft. Observing our youth today fills me with hope for a brighter future, as they will grow up equipped with accurate knowledge.”
Despite years of awareness initiatives, Dr. Wiafe Addai expressed concern over the continued hesitance of many women to seek medical assistance.
“We have raised significant awareness, but we still face challenges in changing the mindset of our community,” she noted.
“Our women should not spend valuable time at prayer camps when effective treatment is available at hospitals. It is important to pray, but seek medical help as well,” she advised.
Dr. Wiafe Addai lamented the alarming statistic that over 2,300 women in Ghana succumb to breast cancer each year, a figure she deemed “unacceptable and exceeding the COVID-19 deaths recorded over two years in the country.”
She warned that late diagnosis complicates treatment, stating, “Many believe that if there is no pain, there is no danger.”
“However, the longer one waits, the more the disease can spread to critical organs like the liver, brain, and bones,” she emphasized.
As the CEO of Peace and Love Hospitals in Ghana, Dr. Wiafe Addai also urged men to become active participants in the breast cancer campaign, stressing that the impact of the disease extends beyond women, affecting families and communities as a whole.
“Every man has a woman in his life, be it a mother, wife, sister, or daughter,” she pointed out.
“Let’s not perceive breast cancer solely as a women’s issue. By supporting our women, we can help many survive.”
In her address, Dr. Wiafe Addai shared updates on significant projects, announcing advancements towards the establishment of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence, the first dedicated cancer center in Ghana and West Africa.
Located in Kwaso, near Ejisu in the Ashanti region, this facility will address all forms of cancer, including cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
“Let us take ownership of this project and view it as our own before seeking external assistance,” she urged.
In closing, Dr. Wiafe Addai expressed gratitude to the Ghana Education Service, the Manhyia Palace, the Otumfuo Foundation, security services, and volunteers for their unwavering support for the cause.
“Together, we can eliminate the fear and stigma surrounding breast cancer,” she asserted.
“Every woman should advocate for herself. We must put an end to premature deaths; early detection and timely action can save lives,” Dr. Wiafe Addai concluded.
Story by Francis Appiah
