ASA Savings and Loans promotes early detection in breast cancer awareness drive

ASA Savings and Loans has launched a breast cancer awareness initiative, emphasizing the importance of early detection through self-examinations. The outreach events took place in Mankesim, Cape Coast, and Kwesimintsim, where health professionals educated and screened women.

Key messages included the need for women to familiarize themselves with their breast health and to conduct regular self-examinations, particularly after menstruation or on a set monthly date for post-menopausal women. Medical screenings, including mammograms for women over 40, were also recommended.

The initiative, part of ASA’s Pink October campaign, aims to empower women and encourage community support for those affected by breast cancer. Participants shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of regular screenings and family support in the recovery process.

The events successfully screened hundreds of women, with several referred for further medical assessment. ASA Savings and Loans is committed to making breast cancer awareness and screenings a regular part of their corporate social responsibility efforts, focusing on the health needs of their predominantly female clientele.

At Kwesimitsim in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis

Madam Marian Mikem, Principal Midwifery Officer at the Kwesimintsim Government Hospital educating clients and market women explained that “We are here to empower women both within and beyond their reproductive years to understand their bodies and take proactive steps toward their health”.

“Many women are not familiar with the normal shape, size, or colour of their breasts,” she noted. “We advised them to study their breasts every morning in front of a mirror, so that any change in shape, size, or colour can be detected early and reported.”

She further encouraged women in their reproductive age to examine their breasts on the second or third day after menstruation, while post-menopausal women were advised to pick a specific date each month for the exercise.

She recommended that women aged 40 and above undergo regular mammograms, while those below 40 opt for breast scans to detect abnormalities early.

“Early detection saves lives,” she emphasised, adding that regular checks, both at home and in health facilities, can prevent needless loss of life.232 people were screened and two who had special cases were referred to the hospital for further checkups”.

Francis Gyabeng, Kwesimintsim Area Manager clarified that the event formed part of ASA Savings and Loans’ Pink October initiative aimed at promoting women’s health and creating awareness about breast cancer across communities.

At Cape Coast in the Central Region

Madam Hucina Alhassan, a Midwery Officer at the Cape Coast Metropolitan Hospital urged families to offer strong emotional, physical and psychological support to loved ones battling breast cancer to help them navigate their recovery journey with hope and dignity.

“Every story is unique, every journey matters” the fight against breast cancer. When a woman receives a breast cancer diagnosis, it does not affect only her-it affects the entire family. The support of spouses, children, siblings and friends can make a major difference in her outlook and recovery,” she reiterated.

She mentioned that 141 people were involved in the exercise with four having special cases and were referred to the hospital.

Gideon Asante, the Area Manager for ASA Savings and Loans Cape Coast Area noted that the company is committed to raising awareness and encouraging early screening to reduce late-stage breast cancer cases.

“We want to create an environment where no woman feels alone in her fight. Families must be the first line of support,” he said.

Prince Amoah, Branch Manager for Cape Coast said this event is held annually by the company over the years to ensure that clients and individuals in their area are healthy.

Agnes Ammissah Arthur, a customer of ASA, thanked them for the screening, “If I was told to go the clinic to check on my breast wouldn’t have gone”.

Inez Owusua Korankye, a trader at the Kotokuraba Market said “this is my first time of screening my breast. “It is not as painful as some people claim, everything went on smoothly.”

At Mankessim

The exercise, was conducted in partnership with the Mercy Women Catholic Hospital at Mankessim in the Central Region, where 163 participants, including men turn out. Seven special cases were identified for further medical assessment and follow-up.

Supervised by Senior Staff Midwife, Augustina Abroba Wricketts led a team to conduct free breast screening and offer health education and counselling.

She emphasised that “breast cancer should not be feared; every story is unique. When detected early and treatment starts on time, survival chances are very high.”

“A breast cancer diagnosis is not the end it can be the beginning of a stronger bond, a more supportive family, and a renewed will to live,” she emphasised.

Michael Lumor, the Mankessim Branch manager of ASA Savings and Loans Limited explained that “The initiative formed part of the institution’s Pink October activities and sought to create awareness about breast cancer, encourage early detection, and break the stigma associated with the disease”.

He explained that the decision to focus on breast cancer stems from the demographics of their client base. “Almost 99 percent of our clients are women, mostly petty traders who rarely have time to visit health centers for regular check-ups. That’s why we are using this opportunity to help them know their health status,” he noted.

He encouraged women to report early to the hospital whenever they detect an abnormality in the breast.

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