Samina Alvi for Affordable Fight Against Breast Cancer

Shazia Mehboob

Islamabad: First Lady Samina Alvi highlighted the significant contribution of the private sector in providing accessible and affordable treatment in the battle against this disease. She also emphasized the crucial role of the Pakistani media in raising awareness about breast cancer.

She was speaking at an awareness session on breast cancer held at the President’s House in Islamabad, organized by Maroof International Hospital in collaboration with the NPC Women Caucus,

In her address, Mrs. Alvi emphasized the significance of accurate data in assessing the country’s breast cancer situation while acknowledging the challenges faced in collaborating for this data due to various factors.

Beyond breast cancer, she highlighted the imperative need to address mental health issues, emphasising that these concerns don’t label individuals but are universal challenges faced irrespective of gender.Mrs. Alvi urged medical practitioners to ensure accessible and affordable breast cancer screening, stressing the necessity of accessible healthcare services for all segments of society.

Moreover, she emphasized the crucial role of mammograms and ultrasounds in early breast cancer detection, citing their potential to significantly improve survival rates. “Her initiatives, including the dissemination of information via text messages and ringtones in Urdu, are aimed at educating the public about symptoms, self-examination, and timely treatment of breast cancer,” she added.

She urged women to conduct monthly self-examinations and seek immediate medical attention upon detecting any abnormalities. Additionally, she urged for discounted screening facilities until December 31 at Maroof International Hospital and appealed to other hospitals to offer similar.

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The panellists appraised the ongoing collaboration between various sectors, including hospitals, media, and the journalist community, in spreading awareness about breast cancer. The medical experts underscored the importance of early screening and providing guidance to women, especially those over 40, on seeking medical advice after detecting any lumps during self-examination.