Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness Day, where cancer specialists emphasised early detection, diagnosis and timely treatment to fight breast cancer.
Dr. Tabinda Sadaf, Consultant Clinical & Radiation Oncologist, highlighted the importance of “knowing your normal” for early detection, noting a 95% cure rate when caught early. She outlined key symptoms: painless lumps, nipple discharge, or changes in breast skin texture, urging breast awareness. Dr. Tahira Yasmeen, Consultant Medical Oncologist, said that breast cancer is not one disease and there are different types and tailored treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted, and hormonal therapies. She reassured attendees that advancements in medicine have improved side-effect management. Dr. Ahsan Mumtaz Rao, Consultant in Breast and Oncoplastic Surgery, emphasised breast-conserving lumpectomies over mastectomies, enhancing quality of life. He stressed the importance of biopsies for accurate diagnosis and smaller surgical interventions because of early detection.
Dr. Usman Rashid, Senior Research Scientist, revealed a 15-month delay in patients seeking hospital care after noticing symptoms. His team’s research identified unique gene mutations in Pakistan’s population, opening the possibility of customised screening. He also highlighted AI’s emerging role in diagnosis and urged support for women to consult credible doctors. Gulnaz, a Shaukat Khanum breast cancer survivor, shared her journey, underscoring the challenges of stigma and the important role of family support. She credited Shaukat Khanum’s equitable, state-of-the-art treatment for her recovery. Dr. Amina Khan (Consultant Oncological Surgeon) and Dr. Asma Rashid Consultant Clinical and Radiation Oncologist) addressed audience queries, debunking myths like undergarments causing cancer and clarifying screening versus diagnostic mammography.
Dr Aasim Yusuf, Chief Medical Officer of Shaukat Khanum Hospitals, closed with a thank you, reflecting on Shaukat Khanum’s thirty years in Lahore, ten years in Peshawar, and the upcoming Karachi hospital which is opening next year. He emphasised the importance of self-exams for early detection in Pakistan’s resource-constrained setting, encouraging attendees to spread awareness. The event, attended by 400 students from 20 universities committing “I pledge to check,” featured a lucky draw supported by Elmore Cosmetics, Outfitters, FPL, Sapphire, Kayseria, and Ain to Trust Foundation. Shaukat Khanum remains committed to comprehensive cancer care, research, and awareness to save lives through early detection.