KARACHI: BHY Hospital organised a breast cancer awareness seminar in Karachi to highlight the importance of early detection, timely medical consultation and greater awareness of the disease among women.
Speakers at the seminar said lack of awareness, social stigma and hesitation often prevent women in Pakistan from seeking medical attention when symptoms first appear. They stressed that detecting breast cancer at an early stage, particularly during Stage I or Stage II, can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Experts Highlight Importance of Early Detection
The seminar was attended by chief guest Dr Shehwar Nisar, Member of the Women Entrepreneurs Subcommittee at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce, along with Consultant Oncologist Dr Amara Manzoor, Consultant Anaesthetist Dr Sarah Ahmed, Hafiza Bisma Mehtab and Consultant Sonologist Dr Qurrat-ul-Ain.
Representatives of BHY Hospital also participated in the programme and shared their professional insights. They included Consultant Gynaecologists Dr Aruna Kumari and Dr Uzma Akram; Consultant General Surgeons Dr Rabeel Qureshi and Dr Kainat Zafar; Dr Payal, Nutritionist Rahma Ayaz, Dr Kaneez Fatima, Dr Rushda, General Ward In-charge Florence Arif, Gynaecology Ward In-charge Azra, and Mammography Technician Mahwish.
A large number of women from nearby neighbourhoods and other parts of Karachi also attended the seminar.
Women Urged Not to Delay Medical Consultation
Addressing participants, speakers emphasised that greater awareness could help women identify potential symptoms earlier and seek appropriate medical advice without unnecessary hesitation.
The experts noted that misconceptions, social stigma and inadequate knowledge about breast cancer can discourage women from undergoing medical examinations, potentially resulting in diagnosis at a more advanced stage.
They urged women to discuss health concerns openly with qualified medical professionals and seek medical advice if they notice unusual changes in their breasts.
Call for Sustained Awareness Efforts
The speakers stressed the importance of educating women about potential symptoms and encouraging greater attention to breast health. They also highlighted the role of early diagnosis in determining appropriate treatment plans and improving patient outcomes.
The seminar called for continued awareness initiatives to address misconceptions and reduce social barriers that may prevent women from seeking medical care.
Participants also pledged to share the information gained during the seminar with women in their families and communities to help promote breast cancer awareness.
At the conclusion of the event, shields were presented to the guests in recognition of their participation.