By: Abu H. Kargbo
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, an All People’s Congress (APC) standard bearer aspirant, has called for sustained and intensified efforts to combat breast cancer in Sierra Leone, highlighting the need for greater awareness, early detection and improved access to treatment.
Dr. Bangura made the call during the annual Well Woman Clinic Breast Cancer Awareness Walk held in Freetown on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The event, which also featured running and cycling activities, marked the 20th anniversary of the Well Woman Clinic’s commitment to providing essential healthcare services to women in Sierra Leone.
He commended the Well Woman Clinic for its dedication to promoting women’s health, describing the awareness walk as an important initiative in educating the public about breast cancer and encouraging early detection.
Dr. Bangura highlighted several challenges confronting cancer care in Sierra Leone, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited funding, low public awareness, and prevailing social and cultural beliefs that can discourage people from seeking timely medical attention.
He stressed that breast cancer is not merely a health issue but also a humanitarian concern that requires collective action and compassion.
“Through awareness, regular screening, early diagnosis, and access to appropriate care, we can save lives and bring hope to more families,” he said.
Drawing from his personal experience, particularly the loss of his mother to breast cancer, Dr. Bangura described the fight against the disease as a personal commitment that demands compassion, solidarity and shared responsibility.
“Let us continue to stand together in solidarity with survivors, support those currently battling the disease, and honour the memories of those we have lost. No one should have to face this journey alone,” he urged.
Referring to the 2024 Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) report, published in September 2026, Dr. Bangura emphasised the need to strengthen national efforts to address the growing burden of cancer, particularly breast cancer.
He called for comprehensive public awareness campaigns, increased access to screening services, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to reduce preventable deaths and improve outcomes for women affected by the disease.
Dr. Bangura reiterated that sustained collaboration among healthcare providers, government institutions, civil society organizations and the public is essential to making meaningful progress in the fight against breast cancer.
“Together, we can make a difference,” he said.
His appeal adds to calls for stronger and more coordinated action to protect the health and well-being of women across Sierra Leone.