Healthcare experts have restated the need for regular screening for early detection of breast cancer.
They urged the public to take early detection serious and help friends and families by encouraging regular self-examination and conversations with doctors.
The prevalence of breast cancer and need for awareness was the focus of Pfizer’s virtual media roundtable to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The experts spoke against the backdrop of 2020 World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBACAN) report that there were 28,380 new cases of breast cancer in Nigeria and 4,482 in Ghana.
Consultant Clinical and Radiation Oncologist, NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre in Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Adewumi Alabi, said: “These forums are critical as they allow us to share our best insight and findings that can support patients in winning the battle against cancer.
“Breast cancer is one of the deadliest diseases with a high prevalence in the area.
“On a positive note, we have evidence-based updates and real-world data showing the efficacy of prescriptions in the management of HR+ HER2- mBC patients.”
Consultant and Director, National Centre for Radiotherapy Oncology & Nuclear Medicine, Korle-bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana, Dr. Joel Yarney, noted that the transformative impact of science on breast cancer was evident.
He said: “While we’ve made meaningful change for those living with this disease, our work is far from finished.’’
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“It is crucial for patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or even metastatic breast cancer to have the right information and expectations.
“It is our duty to encourage patients to have open conversations with their healthcare teams to understand how they can be supported and how they can participate in their own care.
“Taking an active role in their treatment can help them feel empowered in making the best decisions for themselves.”
Medical Director East & Anglo West Africa, Pfizer, Kodjo Soroh, said oncology remains a key therapeutic field for the company.
“We are working to deliver medical breakthroughs that have the potential to change patients’ lives across the region significantly,” he said.
Pfizer said the Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to changing the lives of people with breast cancer for the better – from treatment to helping to remove barriers to equitable care and beyond.
The company said: “Cancer care is driven by the hope to move forward — powered by everything and everyone around you.
“Beginning with each individual’s decision and actions, their community of friends, families, and advocates and the scientists and researchers who dedicate their lives to developing new treatments.
“Pfizer has supported patients and the breast cancer community for more than 20 years and our goals are clear: powering more treatment options, and more breakthroughs, for everyone.”