First Lady advocates breast cancer awareness and mental health initiatives

LAHORE: First Lady Begum Samina Arif Alvi underscored the importance of raising awareness about early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, during a seminar organised by the University of Lahore

Held at the Governor’s House in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), various medical institutions, and NGOs, the event focused on the significance of self-examination in detecting breast abnormalities.

Begum Alvi urged women to conduct monthly self-examinations and promptly consult a doctor if any lump or cyst is detected. Pointing out that one in nine women in Pakistan is affected by breast cancer, she spoke about the societal importance of combating the disease.

Highlighting the urgency of early diagnosis, Begum Alvi stressed that breast cancer is curable at any stage, but delays can increase risks and reduce survival chances. She commended the progress made in overcoming societal taboos around discussing breast cancer, attributing it to increased awareness.

Acknowledging the media's crucial role in disseminating information, the First Lady stated that the ongoing five-year awareness campaign has led to more women seeking treatment in the early stages. She encouraged collective efforts, describing breast cancer awareness as a social responsibility.

She also advocated for the inclusion of differently-abled individuals in society as productive citizens, calling upon the media and stakeholders to provide employment opportunities to such people.

Addressing mental health concerns, she revealed that approximately 24 million people in Pakistan face mental health issues, mentioning the mobile application ‘Hamraz’ as a resource. Seeking the help of foreign experts to contribute to mental health initiatives in Pakistan, she also spoke about the stalled implementation of the ‘Zainab Alert Bill,’ stressing the need for collective action to protect innocent daughters.

The First Lady applauded the University of Lahore and other institutions for organising informative programmes and distributed shields among the organizers. The event featured contributions from Punjab Governor’s wife Begum Ayesha Balighur Rahman, Punjab Health Minister Prof Dr Javed Akram, representative of the WHO Dr Maryum Malik, and other speakers.