Screening camp detects 19 breast cancer cases

ABBOTTABAD:

During a week-long free breast cancer screening and awareness camp at Ayub Teaching Hospital (ATH), 19 out of 290 patients examined were diagnosed with breast cancer.

Out of these, 14 of the diagnosed women were found to be in the advanced stages of the disease, where the survival rate drops to just 13 per cent. Additionally, five women were detected with early-stage breast cancer, highlighting the crucial need for timely diagnosis.

The screening also revealed that 85 young women, aged between 20 and 25, had breast lumps. Among them, two had significantly large lumps, and 18 others reported swelling of the breast ducts. ATH Breast Surgeon Dr Shawana Asad emphasised the importance of early detection and awareness. "We are committed to providing quality treatment and raising awareness. Our hospital, with the support of the current administration and the Board of Governors, has been equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities," she said.

Over 300 women and their families participated in awareness sessions during the camp, where they were educated on breast cancer, self-examination techniques and the importance of early detection. All patients received free diagnostic services and those requiring further treatment or surgery were guided for follow-up visits at the hospital.