Lahore: Pink Ribbon Pakistan recently took the initiative of setting up the country's first dedicated Breast Cancer Hospital in Lahore, informed Omer Aftab, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the non-profit.
The construction of the facility went through complications after the coronavirus pandemic, Omar stated. He added further added that the hospital would have two state-of-the-art 3D digital mammogram machines installed, where deserving patients will get free-of-cost treatment.
"After our continuous and robust awareness campaigns since 2004 across Pakistan, there has been a 400 per cent increase witnessed among women to take mammogram test for any signs of breast cancer," he said. He also urges philanthropists and citizens alike to donate generously to the cause.
Pink Ribbon is observing the first week of October to highlight early detection of Breast Cancer. To serve the purpose, it stresses that women of age 40 and older should go for a mammogram test once every two years. If detected at an early stage, the chances of survival exceed 90 per cent.
Editorial note: At least 70 per cent of Pakistani women with breast cancer end up seeking medical attention too late. This issue is easily avoidable if awareness of symptoms and early screening can be widespread. At early detection, the survival rate jumps to 90 per cent. For more information, visit www.medicalnews.pk.