Story by Warrant Officer Class I Amoah Noel King
Pictures by Corporal Osei Ansh

The Base Commander, Air Force Base Accra, Air Commodore Elvis King Arneson, has emphasised that the fight against breast cancer must go beyond awareness creation to practical action through regular screening, early detection and timely medical intervention.

He made the call on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, when he officially launched the 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness and Health Screening Programme organised by the Air Wives Organisation (AWO) at the Ghana Air Force Aviation College (GHAFAC).

Addressing participants, the Base Commander stressed that early detection remained critical to improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. He therefore urged personnel, spouses and families to prioritise regular medical screening rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe before seeking medical attention.

Air Commodore Arneson also called for open discussions on breast cancer to help eliminate the stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disease. He noted that creating a supportive environment would encourage more individuals to seek information, undergo screening and access appropriate treatment.

He further highlighted the emotional, psychological and social impact of breast cancer on patients and their families, stressing the importance of compassion, counselling and sustained community support for persons undergoing treatment.

The Base Commander commended the AWO, health professionals and other stakeholders for their commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and improving the health and well-being of personnel and their families.

He emphasised that sustained public education, regular screening and timely medical intervention were essential to reducing the burden of breast cancer and improving the quality of life of those affected.

Air Commodore Arneson urged the Ghana Air Force community to embrace a culture of preventive healthcare, support breast cancer survivors and encourage those affected to seek medical assistance without fear or hesitation.

He subsequently declared the 2026 AWO Breast Cancer Awareness and Health Screening Programme officially launched.