KARACHI: Experts and survivors speaking at a recent seminar stressed the need for breaking societal taboos and barriers surrounding breast cancer to encourage open discussions on the issue for early detection and timely medical intervention so that precious lives could be saved.
The seminar entitled ‘Fight Against Breast Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives’, was organized by the Public Relations and Communication Department of Ziauddin University as 23rd session of Ziauddin Dialogues to raise awareness about breast cancer, underscore its severity, and highlight the crucial role of early screening in saving lives.
Addressing the seminar Ziauddin University Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Abbas Zafar said: "Breast cancer is not just a battle fought within the confines of hospitals; it is a war against the silence, stigma, and ignorance that can cost lives. We must break these barriers, challenge cultural taboos, and empower individuals to seek early detection, as too many lives are at risk."
Emphasising the collective responsibility of healthcare professionals and society to promote awareness, he said, "We all have a duty to share this message, especially in communities where breast cancer remains a taboo topic."
Sharing of personal experiences by breast cancer survivors added a poignant human dimension to the conversation. Sima Kamil, former deputy governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, who is a breast cancer survivor, spoke openly about the social pressures that deter women from discussing their health.
"Many women still hesitate to talk about breast cancer, let alone seek early screenings, constrained by stigma and often limited financial resources. This reluctance can be more harmful than the disease itself," she said.
She further pointed out that cultural stigma prevents many women from seeking medical help, particularly in conservative societies. "Encouraging women to speak up can save lives. We must normalise discussions around breast health," she added.
Dawood University of Engineering and Technology ex-vice chancellor Dr. Faizullah Abbasi, a male breast cancer survivor, sharing his story said, "You know your body better than anyone else, so never ignore the signs. When I felt something was wrong, I sought help immediately, which made all the difference. Early detection is essential, and everyone, regardless of gender, should prioritise their health."
Addressing the barriers to screening, Dr. Nida Wahid Bashir, Consultant Breast and General Surgeon, highlighted cultural modesty as a significant obstacle, saying: "Even well-educated women hesitate to undergo mammograms due to fear of exposure. We need to create an environment where women feel safe prioritising their health."
Clinical Nutritionist Amina Mujib Khan emphasised the impact of lifestyle choices on disease prevention, saying: "A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet are crucial to preventing diseases, including breast cancer. Informed dietary choices and regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk."
Meanwhile, Dr. Quratulain Badar, Assistant Professor and Consultant Radiation Oncologist, underscored the importance of early self-examinations and regular screenings.
Dr. Afshan Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Women's Imaging Specialist, urged the need to recognise symptoms such as asymmetry and discharge for timely medical intervention.
Moderating the session, Dr. Adnan A. Jabbar, Professor and Chairman of the Oncology Department at Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, remarked, "Breast cancer is a battle we can win, but only with early detection. No one should feel isolated because of this disease or its stigma."
In her welcome address, Prof. Dr. Nida Hussain, Pro-Chancellor of Ziauddin University, stressed the urgency of raising awareness. "For too long, breast cancer has been shrouded in silence, with too many women suffering in isolation. This silence is deadly. We must dismantle the cultural barriers that hinder early detection and treatment," she said.
The event brought together healthcare professionals, survivors, and advocates to discuss the vital need for early detection, screenings, and public awareness to combat this life-threatening disease, aiming to break taboos and encourage open conversations for timely medical intervention.