KARACHI: Speakers at a seminar called for breaking the taboos surrounding breast cancer and emphasised the need for open conversations to encourage timely medical intervention, early detection, and screening.

The seminar, titled “Fight Against Breast Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives”, brought together healthcare professionals, survivors, and advocates to discuss the importance of early detection, screenings, and public awareness in combating this life-threatening disease.

The event was organised by Ziauddin University (ZU).

“Breast cancer is not just a battle fought within hospital walls; it’s a war against the silence that surrounds it, the stigma that keeps it hidden, and the 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 the balance,” said Acting ZU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Abbas Zafar.

During the session, personal experiences from survivors gave a powerful human dimension to the discussion, highlighting the importance of taking action early.

Sima Kamil, former deputy governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and a breast cancer survivor, spoke candidly about the societal pressures that prevent 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, the stigma attached to the disease, and often by the lack of financial resources for regular check-ups. This reluctance to address breast cancer openly is more harmful than the disease itself.”

“Cultural stigma still plays a 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 a conversation we aren’t afraid to have,” she further added.

Dr Faizullah Abbasi, former VC of Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, and a male breast cancer survivor, shared his journey with the audience, saying, “You know your body better than anyone else, so never ignore the signs. When I felt something wasn’t right, I didn’t delay getting checked, and that made all the difference. Cancer didn’t stop me from continuing my work or leading a full life, but only because I didn’t let fear or hesitation delay my treatment. Early detection is the key to survival, and everyone, regardless of gender, should prioritise their health.”

“Cultural modesty remains a 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 & General Surgeon.

She emphasised 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 judgement.”

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

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

Earlier, in her welcome address, ZU Pro Chancellor Prof Dr Nida Hussain focused on the 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 the cultural barriers that prevent early detection and treatment.”

Published in Dawn, October 20th, 2024