ONE in eight women in Pakistan is likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her life. It is the most prevalent form of cancer among women in the country, and yet detection remains alarmingly low. Nuclear Medicine, Oncology, and Radiotherapy Institute officials have repeatedly drawn attention to the cultural and financial barriers that hinder timely diagnosis, leading to more advanced, harder-to-treat cases. Experts say the best way to combat this disease is through awareness and early detection. Women below 40 should perform self-examinations every month to detect any early signs, while those above 40 are encouraged to get regular mammograms. Recognising the signs and symptoms — such as swelling, skin irritation, pain, or unusual nipple discharge — can lead to prompt treatment, significantly improving survival chances. Moreover, misconceptions surrounding biopsies, such as the fear that they cause cancer to spread or lead to unnecessary breast removal, prevent many women from seeking early diagnosis. In reality, biopsies are safe, minimally invasive procedures that confirm whether a lump is cancerous. Dispelling such myths is essential to encourage timely diagnosis and treatment.

Breast cancer has several known risk factors. These include age, genetic mutations, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and certain non-cancerous breast diseases. According to doctors, lifestyle factors such as delayed marriage, hormonal treatments, and previous radiation therapy also increase the risk. Our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, reliance on junk food, and unhealthy eating habits exacerbate the issue. To lower the risk, a shift towards healthier diets and more active living is necessary. For the government, the path forward is clear. Alongside national campaigns to raise awareness, access to screening must be expanded, especially in rural areas. Cancer treatment services should receive increased funding, and screenings must be free or subsidised for low-income women. Let Pakistan be among the countries that goes beyond mere lip service during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Published in Dawn, October 21st, 2024