The Upper East Chapter of the Forestry Commission Ladies Association (FCLA) has held a dual programme of breast cancer sensitization and tree planting at the Church of Pentecost Hospital, Kumbagri, in Bolgatanga.

The event, brought together staff of the three divisions of the Commission in the Region — the Forest Services Division (FSD), Wildlife Division (WD) and Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD).

Held under the theme “Early Action, Better Outcome,” the programme was aimed at promoting both environmental and human health.

It started with a tree planting exercise on the Hospital’s premises. Led by the Regional Manager of the FSD, represented by the Bolgatanga Forest Range Manager, Mr. Evans Ntiri, members of FCLA and staff of the three divisions planted 30 seedlings of Royal Palm, Cashew, Pink Bauhinia and Cassia.

The trees were planted at strategic locations around the Out-Patient Department (OPD), the maternity block and the main entrance to provide shade, improve air quality and beautify the hospital.

Forest Range officers took participants through proper planting techniques, including depth, spacing, mulching and initial watering to ensure high survival, while hospital staff were tasked with aftercare.

The Hospital Manager, Rev. Dr. Kwame Adjei-Amonfo, commended the Commission for the initiative, saying the trees would not only serve as windbreak and shade but also create a serene and healing environment for patients. Both institutions pledged to monitor and maintain the seedlings.

The second part of the programme focused on breast health. Health professionals conducted a sensitization session and free breast screening for staff of the Commission.

Facilitating the session, Rev.Dr. Mrs. Joy Osei Appiah explained that breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably to form a tumour. Though it can affect both sexes, she said, it is more common in women, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Rev. Dr. Adjei-Amonfo urged staff to practice breast self-awareness and to report any unusual changes promptly to a qualified health professional. He listed warning signs to include dimpling or puckering of the skin, nipple inversion, abnormal or bloody nipple discharge, persistent breast or nipple pain, redness, swelling or skin resembling orange peel.

He stressed that while most lumps are not cancerous, early medical evaluation is critical.

The programme reaffirmed FCLA’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of its members and its support for the Green Ghana Agenda.