Available data from health authorities and cancer registries indicate that approximately 24,000 people in Ghana are diagnosed with cancer each year, highlighting a growing public health concern.
The revelation comes as Ghana joins the global community to mark World Cancer Day 2026, which continues under the theme “United by Unique”, part of a three-year global campaign running from 2025 to 2027.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament to commemorate the day, Ablekuma North Member of Parliament, Ewurabena Aubynn, urged the public to treat cancer as a critical national issue that demands urgent attention.
The lawmaker expressed concern about the rising cancer burden, noting that the increasing number of cases is placing significant pressure on Ghana’s already overstretched healthcare system.
She drew attention to the challenge of late detection, stressing that delayed diagnosis often reduces survival chances and worsens health outcomes for patients.
Hon. Aubynn also highlighted the difficulties many Ghanaians face in accessing screening and early detection services, pointing out that even where such services exist, cost remains a major barrier.
She further noted that cultural and religious beliefs, along with fear, misinformation and the stigma surrounding cancer, continue to discourage early screening and timely medical intervention.
The MP called for sustained public education, improved access to screening, and stronger national efforts to address the cancer burden in the country.
