President Asif Ali Zardari, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have urged women to seek timely medical advice about their health as Pakistan marks Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
In separate messages, the leaders highlighted the importance of early detection, access to quality treatment and public awareness to reduce the impact of breast cancer on women and their families.
President Asif Ali Zardari said breast cancer affected thousands of Pakistani families, with consequences extending beyond patients to their relatives and communities. He encouraged women to pay attention to changes in their health and consult qualified medical professionals when necessary.
The president also called on families and society to create an environment in which women could discuss their health concerns openly and access medical facilities without fear or hesitation.
BHY Hospital Holds Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar in Karachi
He stressed the importance of providing emotional, social and family support to women undergoing treatment, as well as those recovering from the disease.
Shehbaz Highlights Access to Screening and Treatment
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said breast cancer awareness, early diagnosis, quality treatment and continued care remained important public health priorities.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that women were not denied timely and quality treatment because of their location or financial circumstances.
The prime minister said the government was working with federal, provincial and local institutions to improve access to primary healthcare and specialised cancer treatment. He called for particular attention to women in rural and underserved areas, where healthcare facilities can be difficult to access.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the role of lady health workers in educating women about breast cancer symptoms, breast self-awareness, timely medical consultation and the importance of visiting healthcare facilities. He said training was also being provided to strengthen primary healthcare workers’ capacity for early detection.
PIMS Centre Provides Screening Services
The prime minister said the Federal Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Centre at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) was providing screening and diagnostic services, free medicines and referrals for suspected cases requiring further treatment.
He added that the government was working with public health programmes and private organisations to expand access to screening services.
Shehbaz Sharif urged families, media organisations, religious leaders, educational institutions, civil society groups and medical professionals to help break the silence surrounding breast cancer and encourage women to seek timely examinations and treatment.
He emphasised that public awareness and cooperation across society were essential to improving access to healthcare and ensuring that women received appropriate medical attention.
Aseefa Calls for Support and Open Discussion
In her message, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari urged women to prioritise their health and consult qualified medical professionals whenever they had concerns.
She said women affected by breast cancer needed understanding and support from their families and wider society while facing the challenges associated with the disease.
Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also appreciated the contributions of doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, volunteers, patient support organisations and the media in raising awareness and assisting patients.
She stressed the importance of open discussion and accurate information, saying no woman should feel alone while seeking treatment or dealing with breast cancer.
The messages from the president, prime minister and first lady highlighted the need for continued public education, accessible screening and supportive communities to encourage early diagnosis and improve care for women across Pakistan.
