ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Health experts have revealed an alarming rise in breast cancer cases in the country, with over 2.3 million women in Pakistan suffering from breast cancer.
Pakistan is reporting at least 90,000 new cases annually, making the country among the most affected globally.
The health experts shared these shocking figures during the “Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium”, organised by Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) in Karachi. DUHS Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Jehan Ara, served as the chief guest at the event.
The event was also attended by several senior medical professionals.
Addressing the symposium, Dr Nasreen Naz, Director of Dow Institute of Radiology, told the audience that over 2.3 million women in Pakistan are suffering from breast cancer.
She said globally, 109 women die every 24 hours due to breast cancer, while in Pakistan around 90,000 new cases are reported annually, which, she said, is a highly concerning figure.
Breast cancer accounts for 21 percent of cases
She said breast cancer accounts for 21 percent of all cancers diagnosed in women globally.
Even a painless lump can be a sign of cancer, while painful ones are often infections, she explained.
DUHS Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Jehan Ara, expressed grave concern over the alarming number of breast cancer cases being diagnosed in women under the age of 25.
She revealed that one in every eight women in Pakistan is affected by breast cancer, adding early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the mortality rate.
She urged young women to perform regular self-examinations, and women over the age of 30 should undergo routine medical checkups.
