High cost main challenge to treat cancer patients: experts

KARACHI:

An estimated 43,721 new breast cancer cases and 20,039 deaths from the disease in 2024 have been reported from across the country, health experts said, warning that expensive medicines, delayed diagnosis and rising treatment costs were creating serious challenges for patients. Of all cancer cases 44 per cent are reported in women.

The two-day BreastCon 2026, organised by JPMC, opened with experts highlighting the growing cases of breast cancer and difficulties in accessing treatment. They said many patients were unable to continue treatment after diagnosis because of financial constraints.

Professor Dr Tariq Mahmood, head of CyberKnife and TomoTherapy services, said pharmaceutical companies had been approached to seek price reductions.

Dr Tariq Mahmood said a new breast radiotherapy facility being established at JPMC would have the capacity to provide free treatment to 160 patients daily, helping improve access to advanced treatment for breast cancer patients.

Dr Khalid Sher and Dr Syeda Zareen Raza stressed the need to ensure that deserving patients had access to modern medical facilities and treatment.

Breast surgeon Dr Rufina Soomro advised women to undergo timely medical examinations to facilitate early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The DHA Karachi also organised a breast cancer awareness seminar at the DHA Creek Club, highlighting the importance of self-examination and early detection.

Dr. Nida Wahid, Surgeon, emphasised regular self-examination, while survivor Erum Farooq shared her journey and urged women to stay vigilant. Dr. Zareen Gohar, CMO DHA Medical Centre, stressed the importance of continued awareness campaigns.

Meanwhile, health experts, at a conference organised by the Lipid Society of Pakistan at the Karachi Press Club, have stressed the importance of early detection and effective treatment of lipid disorders.