NPA Launches Pink October Campaign to Raise Awareness About Breast and Prostate Cancers

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has launched its Pink October Campaign to raise awareness about breast and prostate cancers and promote early screening, diagnosis and treatment.

The campaign is being held under the theme, “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters.”

The launch brought together health experts, cancer survivors, management and staff of the NPA and representatives from sister agencies to discuss cancer prevention, early detection and the importance of seeking timely medical care.

The campaign emphasised the need for sustained public education, with speakers highlighting early detection as a critical factor in improving cancer outcomes.

Speaking at the launch, NPA Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo said sustained public education and early detection were essential to reducing the impact of cancer.

He urged individuals, institutions and other stakeholders to take collective responsibility for promoting cancer awareness and helping people make informed decisions about their health.

NPA Deputy Chief Executive Dr Sheila Addo thanked management for supporting the initiative and encouraged staff to actively participate in the campaign.

She also called for conversations about cancer prevention and early detection to continue beyond the month of October.

The Chairperson and Special Guest of Honour, Hajia Shamima Muslim, Deputy Government Spokesperson, highlighted the scale of the cancer challenge facing Ghana.

Citing figures from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), she said Ghana recorded 5,487 cancer cases and 2,695 deaths in 2024.

She called for greater compassion and support for cancer patients and their families while urging the public to overcome stigma and seek medical attention as early as possible.

She subsequently declared the Pink October Campaign officially launched.

The event also featured expert sessions focusing on cancer prevention, screening and healthy lifestyles.

Dr Rebecca Nortey of the University of Ghana Medical Centre spoke about prostate health, including risk factors, screening and the importance of seeking timely medical advice.

Nutritionist and University of Health and Allied Sciences lecturer Dr Helena Nti highlighted the importance of healthy diets and lifestyle choices in supporting overall wellbeing and preventive healthcare.

Cancer survivors were also given an opportunity to share their experiences, providing personal perspectives on diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Maud Lokko, a breast cancer survivor, recounted her journey through diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the importance of resilience, support systems and access to appropriate care.

Phillip Annan, a prostate cancer survivor, also shared his experience and stressed the importance of early detection and the support of family and loved ones throughout the treatment process.

Through education, screening and open dialogue, the NPA said it hopes to encourage earlier action, challenge stigma and remind people affected by cancer that they do not have to face the journey alone.

The campaign forms part of the NPA’s efforts to promote health awareness among its workforce and the wider public during the Pink October period.