The Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, in collaboration with CBNC Club and Saving Lives Welfare, have organized a “Pinktober Cancer Awareness Event” to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative aimed to emphasize that breast cancer is not only a public health issue but also a fundamental human rights concern, highlighting every woman’s right to health, awareness, and dignified medical care.
Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh for Human Rights, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Khalid AK Chachar, Secretary, Human Rights Department, presided over the event.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Agha Fakhur Hussain, Director Human Rights Department, who extended warm greetings to the distinguished guests, medical professionals, civil society representatives, and participants. He underscored that breast cancer awareness transcends the realm of health and must be seen as part of the broader struggle for dignity, equality, and women’s rights protection.
Speakers at the event highlighted alarming statistics, noting that breast cancer constitutes nearly 40% of all cancers among women in Pakistan, with one in every nine women at risk of developing the disease. They stressed the urgent need to make awareness, early screening, and timely treatment accessible to all women, irrespective of socioeconomic background.
The event featured panel discussions led by leading oncologists, motivational stories from cancer survivors and interactive awareness sessions focused on dispelling myths, encouraging regular screenings, and promoting preventive healthcare.
In his address, Rajvir Singh Sodha appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Human Rights Department and its partners. He stated, “Ensuring the right to health for women is an essential part of protecting human rights. Awareness and access to early diagnosis are key to saving lives.”
Khalid A.K. Chachar, Secretary, Human Rights Department, reaffirmed the department’s commitment to promoting equality, health equity, and dignity for all citizens, particularly women. He emphasized that partnerships between government institutions, healthcare providers, and civil society are vital in advancing the cause of public health and human rights.