The Ministry of Health in partnership with World Child Cancer (WCC) have held an annual stakeholders meeting in Accra.
The aim of the meeting was to facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the World Child Cancer.
It was also evaluate the organisation's performance relative to its set targets.
Addressing the media, Country Coordinator, Ghana at World Child Cancer, Adwoa Pinamang Boateng Desu
said "The project is called Amgen project and the focus is to improve treatment of childhood cancer with focus. The treatment of childhood cancer is very difficult and expensive so last year there was a call for application of which World Child Cancer came on board and had their funding from Amgen"
She explained that it was a 5 year project and as part of it sought to train healthcare professionals on early warning signs and symptoms.
"We also train radiologist because they play an important role and most often they are not paid. "
"This training will help improve healthcare officers on early signs and symptoms"
"We provide scholarship support for our children who are survivors of cancer."
"Procurement of equipment to support children with cancer"
"World Child Cancer is the leading International charity organization and it has been in Ghana since 2010"
"The focus is to improve access to treatment for children in lower and middle-incomes areas. We train healthcare officers on how to pick up cases very early. When the healthcare personnel are paid"
On his part, Director,Allied Health at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno said "Ladies and Gentlemen, the escalating prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as cancers, poses a significant challenge to Ghana, extending beyond the health sector to impact the economy".
"According to the World Health Organization, cancer stands as a prominent cause of death among children and adolescents globally"
"Presently, there are approximately 12,000 diagnosed cases of childhood cancers worldwide, with an anticipated annual increase of 1,200 new cases in Ghana. Early detection is crucial for the successful treatment of many childhood cancers, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis"
"Together, we can refine our strategies and approaches to better address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As we embark on this journey together, let us keep in mind the ultimate goal to create a sustainable and impactful change in the landscape of child cancer care in Ghana"
"The success of our endeavors hinges on the collaborative spirit of all stakeholders involved. Your expertise, dedication, and passion are essential components of the formula for success"
Sharing his thoughts, Outgoing Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu said "We are grateful to World Child Cancer for complementing our efforts in improving treatment and care for children diagnosed with cancer in Ghana"
"We are personally proud of the progress with implementation of the National Policy on NCDS"
"To further strengthen our commitment towards the prevention and treatment of cancers, we are experiencing increasing investments in cancer care and human resource development.
With support from some of our development partners, the country has seen investments in the area of pathology, radiotherapy, imaging, pediatric,oncology and medical oncology among others."
"This is a great opportunity for WCC to bring stakeholders up to speed on the general roadmap of the various projects they are implementing in Ghana and to address any roadblocks"
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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