GFA Foundation Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness in October

Campaign Overview

The Ghana Football Association (GFA), in collaboration with the GFA Foundation, has announced that October will be dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative is part of the broader “Football for Good” program, aiming to enhance awareness of breast cancer within the football community and beyond.

Core Objectives

This campaign reflects the fundamental mission of the GFA Foundation, which focuses on supporting projects and initiatives that improve the lives of football stakeholders and communities. It also seeks to use football’s influence to foster social and behavioral change.

WHO Theme for 2023

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has adopted the theme “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters” for this year’s awareness campaign, emphasizing the individuality of experiences and highlighting the importance of empathetic, timely, and quality care for all individuals, irrespective of their location, financial situation, or background.

Activities and Engagement

Prosper Harrison-Addo, Esq., General Secretary of the GFA, emphasized the association’s commitment, stating, “We will utilize our various platforms—including league matches, football legends, and clubs—to promote awareness.”

Throughout the month of October, the GFA will disseminate information regarding breast cancer prevention, risk factors, detection, and symptoms. Additionally, they plan to collaborate with partner organizations to offer complimentary screenings to the public, particularly targeting members of the football and sports community.

A photography campaign utilizing a Breast Cancer selfie frame will take place during the Black Stars’ final World Cup qualifier against Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium and during local league matches.

Global Context

Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with approximately 2.3 million new cases diagnosed annually. It represents one in eight cancer cases across all genders and constitutes a quarter of all cancers affecting women, with 70% of deaths occurring in areas with limited resources.

Challenges such as inadequate healthcare systems, lack of awareness, and restricted access to early detection services lead to late diagnoses and poorer outcomes. In many cases, breast cancer disproportionately impacts younger women, resulting in premature deaths and a rise in maternal orphans.