Sir Syed University organizes cancer awareness program

KARACHI: The BCA Project Team of the ORIC Department of the Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology (SSUET) recently organized a cancer awareness workshop at the campus where a breast cancer survivor's experience was shared.

Reema Ismail, the wife of Governor Sindh, was the chief guest for the event. The event was attended by a large number of women, including Mrs Shahsta Khatoon (wife of Chancellor, SSUET), Mrs Munira Vali Uddin (wife of Vice-Chancellor, SSUET), Mrs Husna Sarfraz (wife of Registrar, SSUET), Dr Rabia Noor Enam, Director ORIC, Zarmina Bakhtiar, Misbah Khalid, and others.

Addressing the workshop, Reema Ismail said that the main reason behind the spread of cancer in Pakistan is a lack of awareness that causes a delay in the detection of breast cancer, and most women approach hospitals at the last stage of cancer. Holding such events may create awareness among women to respond appropriately for prevention and protection from breast cancer.

Appreciating the determination of the SSUET team, she said, "It is a well-organized and well-attended program, and we are especially impressed with your efforts to help the differently-abled people. First lady Samina Alvi's task force will be honoured to work with you to make a better Pakistan. Our mission is to prevent and cure breast cancer by creating widespread awareness through community engagement on prevention, early detection, and increased access to treatment.”

Zarmina Bakhtiar believed that women should not be silent with fear of shame and social stigma. They must approach healthcare professionals for early detection of the disease. Sir Syed University had done a fantastic job to create awareness among women about breast cancer, she lauded.

In Pakistan, around 40,000 women die of breast cancer every year. Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia. An estimated 1 in 10 women may develop breast cancer, and around 10 million women are at risk of breast cancer in Pakistan.

-MN Report