KARACHI: “Breast cancer is not just battle fought within hospital walls, it’s war against silence that surrounds it, stigma that keeps it hidden and ignorance that costs lives.

We must break through these barriers, challenge cultural taboos and empower every individual to seek early detection because too many lives are hanging in balance,” emphasised Prof. Dr. Abbas Zafar, acting Vice Chancellor of Ziauddin University.

He addressed this issue during 23rd interactive series of ZU Dialogues, titled ‘Fight Against Breast Cancer: Early Detection, Saves Lives’, organized by PR and Communications department of Ziauddin University.

Purpose of this impactful session was to raise awareness about breast cancer, direct society’s attention toward gravity of this issue and emphasise critical role of early screening and detection in saving lives.

While highlighting critical importance of early detection and reiterating responsibility of healthcare professionals and society to spread awareness about breast cancer, Dr. Abbas Zafar said “Each of us has responsibility to spread this message, especially in communities where breast cancer is still considered taboo.”

During session personal experiences from survivors gave powerful human dimension to discussion, highlighting importance of taking action early. Sima Kamil, Former Deputy Governor State Bank of Pakistan and female breast cancer survivor, spoke candidly about societal pressures that keep women from openly discussing their health.

“Even today, many women hesitate to talk about breast cancer, let alone seek early screening. They feel constrained by societal pressures, stigma attached to disease and often by lack of financial resources to afford regular check-ups. This reluctance to address breast cancer openly is more harmful than disease itself.”

“Cultural stigma still plays large role in preventing many women from seeking early medical help, particularly in conservative societies. By encouraging women to speak up and seek help, we can save more lives. It’s crucial to make breast health conversation we aren’t afraid to have,” she further added.

Dr. Faizullah Abbasi, former Vice Chancellor of Dawood University of Engineering and Technology and male survivor of breast cancer, shared his journey with audience, saying, “You know your body better than anyone else, so never ignore signs. When I felt something wasn’t right, I didn’t delay getting checked, and that made all difference.

Cancer didn’t stop me from continuing my work or leading full life, but only because I didn’t let fear or hesitation delay my treatment. Early detection is key to survival, and everyone, regardless of gender, should prioritise their health.”

“Cultural modesty remains significant barrier to women seeking essential breast screenings, many well-educated women hesitate to undergo mammograms due to fear of exposure,” said Dr. Nida Wahid Bashir, Consultant Breast and General Surgeon.

She said that cultural norms often prevent women from coming forward for mammograms, even when they know it could save their lives. We must foster an environment where women feel safe and empowered to prioritise their health without fear of judgment.

Giving her opinion on how lifestyle choices significantly impact breast cancer risk, Amina Mujib Khan, Clinical Nutritionist, emphasised, “Healthy lifestyle and balanced diet are foundations of disease prevention, including breast cancer. By making informed dietary choices and staying active, we reduce likelihood of developing breast cancer and ensure better overall health.”

Dr. Quratulain Badar Assistant Professor and Consultant Radiation Oncologist, highlighted importance of starting early with breast self-examinations and regular screenings, while Dr. Afshan Shaikh Assistant Professor and Women Imaging Specialist stressed recognizing symptoms like asymmetry and discharge for timely intervention.

Moderating 23d ZU Dialogues Dr. Adnan A. Jabbar Professor and Chairman of Oncology Department, Dr Ziauddin Hospital said that breast cancer is battle that we can win, but only if we take necessary steps to catch it early. We need to ensure that no woman or man feels isolated by this disease or stigma surrounding it.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Prof. Dr. Nida Hussain Pro-Chancellor of Ziauddin University, focused on urgency of raising awareness about breast cancer and said, “For too long, breast cancer has been shrouded in silence, with too many women suffering in isolation. This silence is deadly. We must work together to dismantle cultural barriers that prevent early detection and treatment.”

Event brought together healthcare professionals, survivors and advocates to discuss importance of early detection, screenings and public awareness in combating this life-threatening disease. Event sought to break taboos surrounding breast cancer and emphasise need for open conversations to encourage timely medical intervention, early detection and screening.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 19 2024

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