A special awareness session on breast cancer was organized at the Karachi Press Club under the Pink Ribbon campaign in collaboration with Martin Dow. The session was exclusively arranged for women and aimed at raising awareness about early detection, causes, risks, and preventive measures related to breast cancer.
The guest of honor, Dr. Rufina Somroo, highlighted that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. She pointed out that unfortunately, Pakistan has a significantly higher breast cancer rate compared to India and other Asian countries. She shared that in Pakistan, the disease is commonly diagnosed in women aged between 40 to 50, while around 7% of cases are found among women aged between 20 to 30. In contrast, in developed countries, the typical age bracket is between 50 to 60 years.
Stages of Breast Cancer Explained
Dr. Rufina explained that breast cancer progresses in four stages:
- A small lump forms.
- The lump increases in size.
- Lymph nodes under the armpit are affected.
- The disease spreads to other parts of the body.
She stated that only 10% of women in Pakistan are diagnosed at an early stage, which affects timely treatment. She emphasized that being a woman itself is a risk factor, and the risk increases with age. Consanguineous marriages (within close relatives) also contribute to higher risk, while women who give birth before the age of 30 tend to have a lower risk.
Importance of Early Detection
Dr. Rufina stressed that mammograms can detect breast cancer up to two years before symptoms appear. She urged women to undergo a mammogram every two years and regularly perform self-examinations after menopause. Any unusual change should be immediately reported to a specialist. She encouraged women, saying:
“Don’t be afraid. Be courageous. Cancer is treatable, and early detection saves lives.”
Participants were also practically trained on the correct method of breast self-examination.
Karachi Press Club Acknowledges the Initiative
Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili and Secretary Sohail Afzal Khan were also present. Fazil Jamili praised the event, stating that such awareness programs are essential and the large participation of women reflects growing awareness in society.
The session was supervised by Governing Body Member Mona Siddiqui, whose efforts were highly appreciated for organizing the program successfully.
In conclusion, Dr. Rufina Somroo and the Martin Dow team were presented with traditional Ajraks and honorary shields by Karachi Press Club.
A special screening facility was also arranged to demonstrate practical breast examination techniques to participants, who found the event extremely informative and expressed hope for similar initiatives in the future.
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