Karachi: The increasing incidence of breast cancer among young women in Pakistan has raised alarm, according to Professor Jehan Ara, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences. She emphasized that even women under 25 are being diagnosed with the disease, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and early detection.
Professor Ara stressed the importance of regular self-examinations for young women and immediate medical consultation upon noticing any abnormalities. She advised women over 30 to undergo regular medical checkups, a practice previously recommended mainly for those above 40. She underscored that early diagnosis could save lives, urging for preventive measures to start much earlier.
During October, the Dow Institute of Radiology is providing mammography and other breast screening tests at reduced rates. Professor Ara made these comments at the Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium organized by Dow University, where she was the chief guest.
The symposium also featured Dr. Nasreen Naz, Director of Dow Institute of Radiology, who noted that more than 2.3 million women in Pakistan suffer from breast cancer, positioning the country among those most affected globally. She mentioned that Pakistan sees around 90,000 new cases annually, with a global death rate of 109 women every 24 hours due to breast cancer.
Dr. Naz pointed out that many Pakistani women remain unaware of breast cancer, and even fewer engage in regular screening. Dow University offers extensive diagnostic services, including biopsy and mammography, to address this gap.
Dr. Anila Raheem highlighted that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month globally and stressed that breast cancer constitutes 21 percent of all cancers diagnosed in women worldwide. She urged students to cultivate awareness of such health issues, noting that even painless lumps could indicate cancer.
The event concluded with Professor Ara distributing certificates to speakers and participants, reinforcing the importance of continued advocacy and education on breast cancer.