Lack of sleep increases chances of breast cancer – Specialist

The Chief Executive Officer of Bo Regenerative Medical Diagnostic Specialist Clinic, Dr Boanerges Nartey, says a larger risk of breast cancer exists in persons who do not get enough sleep.

“Sleep is important for human health. So those who normally do not sleep between the hours of 2100 and 0200 are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer,” he said.

Dr Nartey said this at a free breast screening organised by the Women in Leadership International in collaboration with the Nana Yaa Owusu Prempeh Foundation for residents of Okaikwei North Municipality.

He said: “When the body is denied sleep, the Melatonin hormone (a hormone that stimulates the body cells at the time of sleep) fails to function.”

Dr Nartey, therefore, advised women and girls to endeavour to have enough sleep regularly and routinely do breast examinations.

He also advised men who were addicted to alcohol intake and smoking to desist from those acts because they increased their chances of developing breast cancer.

Dr Nana Yaa Owusu Prempeh, Founder, Nana Yaa Owusu Prempeh Foundation, said early detection of breast cancer was a remedy on its own.

“So, everyone, especially women should make it a point to get their breasts examined by a professional. Even if there is no money, there will definitely be a free screening somewhere for all to take part,” he added.

She advised women diagnosed with breast cancer to seek medical attention for treatment rather than depend on churches for a miracle.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women where the breast’s cells proliferate out of control.

Its symptoms include a lump in the breast, bloody discharge from the nipple and changes in the shape or texture of the nipple or breast.