MONROVIA – Elton Johns, Chief Executive Officer of Bukonjadeh Group of Companies, has called on the Liberian government and private sector to support efforts to make breast cancer diagnosis and treatment more affordable and accessible to patients across the country.
By Sampson W. Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
Johns made the appeal during an interview with Liberia Excellent News Network (LENN) in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the need for collective action to address the financial challenges faced by people living with the disease.
He said the high cost of treatment places considerable pressure on patients and their families, urging private businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals to contribute to initiatives that support cancer patients.
“Government alone cannot do everything,” Johns said, stressing that partnerships between public institutions and private entities could help expand support for people who struggle to afford medical care.
He also called on the Ministry of Health to consider expanding access to cancer treatment services beyond Monrovia, particularly in underserved counties where patients may face difficulties accessing specialized care.
“There are individuals who have never gone through the treatment. They have never started the first dose,” Johns said, highlighting the challenges confronting patients who cannot afford to begin treatment.
The Bukonjadeh Group CEO proposed that businesses, including supermarkets and other commercial establishments, consider voluntary fundraising initiatives to help cover patients’ medical expenses and support cancer research.
He said contributions, regardless of size, could collectively provide meaningful assistance to affected families if businesses and individuals participated in such efforts.
Johns further encouraged men and women to seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes in their breasts, emphasizing the importance of consulting qualified health professionals for timely evaluation and appropriate care.
As part of the observance, Bukonjadeh Group employees wore pink clothing to demonstrate solidarity with breast cancer survivors and patients undergoing treatment.
Background on Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and may spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated appropriately. Although it occurs predominantly in women, men can also develop the disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the majority of countries worldwide. Its impact extends beyond patients to families and communities, particularly where access to early diagnosis and specialized treatment is limited.
Signs that require medical evaluation may include a new lump or thickening in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, alterations to the skin, nipple changes, or unusual discharge. Not all breast changes indicate cancer, but suspicious symptoms should be assessed promptly by a qualified health professional.
Early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and increase the range of available treatment options. Depending on the type and stage of the disease, treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted medicines.
In Liberia, the cost and availability of diagnostic services and specialized treatment remain important concerns for patients who must seek care. Expanding access to health facilities, strengthening early detection services, and providing financial assistance to vulnerable patients are among the measures that could help reduce barriers to care.
Johns said the initiative reflected his company’s concern about the impact of breast cancer and its desire to encourage greater involvement in supporting affected individuals.
He reiterated the need for sustained cooperation among government, private businesses, and civil society organizations to reduce financial barriers to treatment and improve access to cancer care throughout Liberia.
