Breast Care International (BCI) is calling on the government to include full financial coverage for breast cancer treatment under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to help reduce deaths linked to the disease.
President of BCI, Dr. Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, said the high cost of diagnosis and treatment remains one of the biggest obstacles preventing many women from accessing proper medical care, leading to treatment abandonment and avoidable deaths.
During a sensitization campaign at the Kotoka International Airport, Dr. Wiafe-Addai explained that expanding NHIS coverage to include comprehensive breast cancer care would significantly ease the financial strain on patients and improve recovery outcomes.
“A lot of women stop treatment because they cannot afford the cost of biopsy, mammogram, or scans. If we truly want to help, then breast cancer treatment must be covered holistically under the NHIS. Even if it means reviewing the insurance premiums to make it possible, it’s worth it,” she said.
She described the current situation as alarming, revealing that six Ghanaian women die from breast cancer every day, a figure she said underscores the urgent need for policy reforms.
Dr. Wiafe-Addai emphasised that early detection and continuous treatment are vital to saving lives, urging government and stakeholders to prioritise funding to make breast cancer care more affordable and accessible.
The awareness exercise was held in collaboration with the Ghana Airports Company Limited, Delta Airlines, and Women in Aviation, as part of BCI’s nationwide campaign to promote breast health education and early screening.
“Every year we hold this event at the airport to educate our women about breast cancer and also provide free clinical screening,” she added.
Also present was Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and gospel musician Dr. Kofi Sarpong, who serves as an ambassador for breast cancer awareness. He called for stronger social and financial support systems to assist survivors on their journey to recovery.
“Beyond treatment, survivors need support — both emotional and financial — to help them rebuild their lives,” he said.
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