Islamabad: On the occasion of International Breast Cancer Awareness Day, President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating breast cancer through early detection, treatment, and increased access to care. The President’s message highlighted the country’s efforts to address the disease, which remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Pakistani women.
President Zardari underscored the importance of breaking silence and dispelling stigma associated with breast cancer. He emphasized that early detection significantly improves survival rates, which can exceed 90 percent if the disease is caught in its initial stages.
The Government of Pakistan, led by the Ministry of National Health Services, is taking comprehensive measures to tackle this health challenge. Initiatives include the establishment of dedicated Breast Cancer Clinics and the provision of free mammography and diagnostic services. Training programs for Lady Health Workers and primary care providers are also being implemented to facilitate early detection.
Breast cancer screening is being integrated into Primary Health Care and Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health programs to promote awareness. National campaigns are organized each October in collaboration with partners like WHO and UNFPA. Efforts also include the development of a National Cancer Registry and Cancer Control Program to guide policy-making.
Telemedicine and digital health services are being expanded to extend consultations and follow-ups to women in remote areas. The government is also fostering public-private partnerships to encourage investment in cancer prevention and research.
President Zardari called on all Pakistanis to join the national movement for awareness and early detection. He urged individuals to encourage regular self-examinations and clinical screenings among women.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to eliminating preventable deaths from breast cancer in Pakistan, with a focus on awareness, access, and accountability.