Early diagnosis of cancers can significantly enhance patients’ survival in Ghana. However, a Ghanaian surgeon says the barrier of limited access to modern technological diagnostic capacities persists.
Speaking on Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9 FM in Kumasi with Sir John, on Friday,June 12,2026, Professor of Surgery, Professor Joseph Yorke, indicated that late diagnosis hinders treatment success for many patients with cancer cases in Ghana.
Prof Yorke added that many patients only seek care when cases have become worse.
“By the time most patients show up at the hospital, the case has already reached advanced stage, making curative treatment extremely difficult,” he said. “This usually means that they will have to undergo very aggressive procedures, that not only limit the potential for survival but completely takes away their ability to live like a human being.”
He indicated that the burden of cancers is steadily increasing in Ghana, especially in urban and semi-urban centers, where exposure to environmental pollutants, and occupational exposure are becoming increasingly critical. Yet, over this period, a looming increase in incidence is only due to a lack of early detection tools and a lack of a systematic population screening program.
He also indicated that many health facilities in Ghana do not even have basic diagnostic equipment, outside of urban areas, let alone; developed imaging systems that could assist in diagnosis.
“The unfortunate reality is that if you’re not in Accra or Kumasi, then it is likely advanced cancer will only be diagnosed when patients see significant symptoms,” he continued.
Touching on innovative advances in technology, Prof Yorke, stressed the need for the country to help improve on facilities at tertiary hospitals and satellite health facilities.
He called for Ghana to match global standards in surgical operations, citing inadequate facilities, equipment, investment in specialist training.
He said many complex surgeries are still carried out abroad because the country lacks world class infrastructure to handle such procedures.
He noted that the country has fallen behind in the provision of modern equipment, sustained investment, and continuous training of surgeons, stressing that these gaps have hindered the growth of specialised surgical services.
By Benjamin Aidoo
