Experts urge regular cancer screening
Scientists from Oxford successfully developed vaccine against Ovarian Cancer. PHOTO: FILE
Health experts on Wednesday urged regular screening and a proactive approach to combat the growing challenge of cancer in the country.
They were addressing the awareness session organised by Maroof International Hospital (MIH) to mark World Cancer Day with a focus on early detection, prevention, and international cooperation in healthcare.
Dr Yasser Rehman, a USA-trained Oncologist at MIH, delivered an insightful presentation on cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment advancements.
Dr Mir Abdul Waheed, Medical Director of MIH, emphasised the need for continuous cancer awareness campaigns and research. He reiterated MIH's commitment to community support programs, ensuring that cancer prevention and treatment remain a top priority.
Haroon Naseer, CEO of MIH, highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that Pakistan records over 185,000 new cancer cases annually, with breast cancer being the most prevalent, affecting one in nine women.
He stressed that timely screening and lifestyle modifications could prevent up to 40% of cancer-related deaths. Haroon Naseer emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration between Pakistan and Kazakhstan in healthcare.
He outlined key areas for cooperation, including medical education partnerships between universities in both countries, establishing nursing schools to enhance professional training and joint cancer research initiatives to develop better treatment strategies.
He also stressed working jointly on women empowerment programmes focused on health education and awareness and medical tourism, facilitating patient care across borders.
Yerzhan Kistafin, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan underscored the shared commitment of both nations to advancing healthcare solutions.
He visited the hospital's facilities and expressed appreciation for MIH's medical infrastructure and its role in advancing healthcare in Pakistan.
Kistafin reaffirmed Kazakhstan's interest in strengthening ties with Pakistan in healthcare, medical research, and pharmaceutical development.
He noted that Pakistan's herbal medicines are highly popular in Kazakhstan and proposed further collaboration in this sector.