PM Shehbaz, President Zardari urge unity in breast cancer awareness efforts

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of nationwide awareness and cooperation to reduce breast cancer mortality rates in Pakistan, marking the International Day Against Breast Cancer on October 19.

Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the global prevalence of breast cancer as the most common form of cancer affecting women. He noted that a significant number of deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, including Pakistan.

Pakistan faces challenges in providing adequate screening and treatment facilities for breast cancer.

However, Prime Minister stressed that these obstacles could be overcome through a strong focus on early diagnosis.

"There is a 98% chance of permanent recovery when breast cancer is detected at an early stage," he remarked, urging women to take proactive steps by performing regular self-examinations.

The Prime Minister noted the positive impact of awareness campaigns in Pakistan, citing an increase in the reporting of early-stage breast cancer cases.

He praised the media for its pivotal role in spreading information and urged all stakeholders, particularly media outlets, to strengthen efforts towards a comprehensive and well-coordinated national campaign.

“I call upon all stakeholders, especially the media, to galvanize efforts towards a holistic awareness campaign at the national level,” the Prime Minister said adding “With our collective efforts, we can significantly reduce breast cancer mortality in Pakistan and provide hope for a healthier future for all women.”

President Asif Ali Zardari stressed the importance of raising awareness about the disease by addressing misconceptions and prioritizing healthy lifestyle adjustments. He also emphasized the need to educate women about breast cancer, regular self-examination, and mammographic screening.

This year's theme, "No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone," for Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds of the importance of support, solidarity, and care for every person dealing with this disease, President Zardari added.

“Breast cancer is not only the most frequently diagnosed cancer but also the leading cause of death among women in low- and middle-income countries”, the president said. The incidence of breast cancer is more common in South Asian countries, mainly due to a lack of breast cancer awareness among women.

"In our country, one in every nine women is at risk of breast cancer, and the late diagnosis of the disease considerably contributes to the high mortality rate. Moreover, economic obstacles deter many from receiving the required treatment," President Zardari stated.

The president urged policymakers and health officials to plan and prioritize disease control activities, including improved treatment and individual patient care. He also called for women's access to screening and early detection services, critical in detecting breast cancer early and saving lives.

President Zardari acknowledged the critical role of the media in raising awareness about breast cancer, urging print, electronic, and social media to educate people about the disease to save thousands of precious lives.

"Let us recommit to giving more support, care, and hope to patients, families, and survivors of breast cancer," he said, expressing hope that collective efforts at the individual, institutional, and national levels would enable the country to improve overall health and well-being and reduce breast cancer-related deaths.