The Health Sciences Students’ Association (HESA-KNUST) has intensified efforts to promote breast cancer awareness and early detection through a health education outreach at the International Community School (ICS), Kumasi, on 9 October 2026.
Held under the theme “Early Detection, Empowered Lives: Standing Together Against Breast Cancer,” the initiative sought to educate students on breast cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, available treatment options, and the importance of seeking timely medical attention.
The outreach forms part of HESA-KNUST’s commitment to public health education, disease prevention, and community engagement, extending health information beyond the university environment to empower young people to make informed health decisions.
During the session, participants received education on breast cancer, including potential warning signs, factors associated with increased risk, and available treatment options. The programme also addressed common myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease, emphasising the importance of obtaining accurate information from reliable health sources.
Participants were encouraged to take breast health seriously and seek professional medical evaluation whenever unusual breast changes are noticed. The discussions highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment in improving outcomes for people affected by breast cancer.
The outreach further explored healthy lifestyle choices that may help reduce breast cancer risk, while underscoring that no preventive measure eliminates the risk. Participants were therefore encouraged to remain informed, understand their individual risk factors, and seek professional medical advice when necessary.
Beyond the medical aspects of breast cancer, the programme highlighted the need to address the fear, stigma, and misinformation that can prevent individuals from discussing breast health or seeking timely care.
HESA encouraged participants to foster supportive environments in their schools, families, and communities, where people affected by breast cancer can access information and treatment without fear of discrimination or judgement.
Participants were also urged to share the knowledge acquired with their friends, siblings, relatives, and other community members, positioning them as advocates for breast cancer awareness.
Speaking on the importance of community health education, the President of HESA-KNUST, Clifford Amoah Takyi, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting health awareness and making a meaningful impact beyond the university community.
“As future healthcare professionals, our responsibility extends beyond the classroom. We must empower our communities with knowledge, promote early detection, and stand together against the stigma surrounding breast cancer. Through awareness, compassion, and collective action, we can help save lives and build healthier communities,” he stated.
He encouraged participants to become ambassadors of breast cancer awareness by sharing accurate information, challenging misconceptions, and supporting individuals affected by the disease.
The President further emphasised the responsibility of health sciences students to translate their academic knowledge into practical interventions that respond to community health needs.
As the representative association for students of the KNUST College of Health Sciences, HESA recognises community engagement and health education as important components of preparing future healthcare professionals to serve society.
The outreach at International Community School reflects this commitment by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and community practice.
Through sustained engagement with schools and other stakeholders, HESA-KNUST seeks to promote healthier behaviours, counter misinformation, and contribute to better-informed communities.
Guided by the message “Early Detection, Empowered Lives: Standing Together Against Breast Cancer,” the initiative reinforced the importance of knowledge, timely medical consultation, and collective responsibility in addressing breast cancer.
The outreach underscores HESA-KNUST’s continued commitment to advancing health education and community service in support of the broader mission of the College of Health Sciences, KNUST.
Editorial Team
Editor: Erica Ama Nkrumah
Public Relations Officer (PRO): Richard Amoh
Health Sciences Students’ Association (HESA-KNUST)
College of Health Sciences
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology