The Cancer Burden in Ghana & Africa

Over 27,000 new cancer cases are recorded in Ghana each year, with about 18,000 deaths, and late diagnosis accounts for roughly 70% of them. The most common cancers are breast, cervical, prostate, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, ovarian, and colorectal — many of which could be survived with early detection and proper care.

Limited access to early screening, diagnostic services, specialized treatment centers, and trained oncology professionals means survival rates remain lower than in other parts of the world. Access to treatment remains a major challenge.

Despite these challenges, there is hope. With increased awareness, improved health systems, and access to modern cancer care, many lives can be saved. This is why the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Center of Excellence is urgent and essential — bringing advanced care closer to the people, and changing the story of cancer from one of fear and loss to one of hope, survival, and healing.