Breast cancer session urges timely detection

KARACHI:

An awareness session on breast cancer was held at the Karachi Press Club (KPC), in collaboration with Martin Dow, as part of the Pink Ribbon Campaign. The session aimed to educate women regarding the risks, causes, preventive measures, and importance of early detection of breast cancer.

The chief guest of the program was Dr Rufina Soomro, who informed participants that breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer among women worldwide. She expressed concern that Pakistan has a higher incidence rate compared to India and other Asian countries, stating that the disease typically appears in Pakistani women between the ages of 40 to 50, while in those aged 20 to 30, the rate remains around 7 per cent. Dr Soomro also pointed out that, unfortunately, only 10 per cent of Pakistani women are diagnosed in the early stages of the disease, with the majority seeking treatment too late.

She emphasised that simply being a woman is a risk factor, and that the risk increases with age. Marriages within close family relations can increase the chances of breast cancer, while women who give birth to their first child before the age of 30 are at relatively lower risk. Dr Soomro further highlighted that breast cancer can be detected up to two years before symptoms appear through a mammogram, urging women to undergo one every two years. She also encouraged women to perform self-examinations after their menstrual cycles end. The session included practical breast examination demonstrations, helping participants learn accurate self-check techniques.

Offering encouragement, Dr Soomro said, "Don't fear - be brave. Cancer is treatable. Sadness and mental stress can worsen the disease, so maintain a positive attitude."