Breaking the Silence on Breast Cancer: Ziauddin University Dialogues

Breast cancer is not just a battle fought

within hospital walls; it’s a war against

the silence, stigma, and ignorance

Health Reporter

Karachi: “Breast cancer is not just a battle fought within hospital walls; it’s a war against the silence, stigma, and ignorance that cost lives. We must break through these barriers, challenge cultural taboos, and empower individuals to seek early detection because too many lives are hanging in the balance,” emphasized Prof. Dr. Abbas Zafar, Acting Vice Chancellor of Ziauddin University.

He made these remarks during the 23rd interactive series of ZU Dialogues, titled “Fight Against Breast Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives,” organized by the PR & Communications department of Ziauddin University.

Raising Awareness About Breast Cancer

The session aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer, direct society’s attention to the issue’s gravity, and highlight the critical role of early screening in saving lives. Dr. Abbas Zafar reiterated the collective responsibility of healthcare professionals and society to spread awareness. He said, “Each of us has a responsibility to spread this message, especially in communities where breast cancer is still considered taboo.”

Personal Stories Highlighting the Need for Early Detection

Personal experiences from survivors provided a powerful human dimension to the discussion. Sima Kamil, Former Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and a breast cancer survivor, spoke candidly about societal pressures that prevent women from discussing their health. “Many women hesitate to talk about breast cancer or seek early screening due to societal pressures, stigma, and financial constraints. This reluctance to address breast cancer openly is more harmful than the disease itself,” she stated.

Kamil added, “Cultural stigma plays a significant role in preventing women from seeking early medical help, particularly in conservative societies. By encouraging women to speak up and seek help, we can save more lives. It’s crucial to make breast health a conversation we aren’t afraid to have.”

Early Detection: A Key to Survival

Dr. Faizullah Abbasi, former Vice Chancellor of Dawood University of Engineering and Technology and a male breast cancer survivor, shared his journey, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs of illness. “You know your body better than anyone else, so never ignore the signs. When I felt something wasn’t right, I didn’t delay getting checked, and that made all the difference. Early detection is the key to survival, and everyone, regardless of gender, should prioritize their health.”

Dr. Nida Wahid Bashir, Consultant Breast & General Surgeon, addressed the cultural barriers preventing women from seeking essential screenings. “Cultural norms often prevent women from coming forward for mammograms, even when they know it could save their lives. We must foster an environment where women feel safe and empowered to prioritize their health without fear of judgment,” she stated.

Lifestyle Choices and Breast Cancer Risk

Amina Mujib Khan, Clinical Nutritionist, emphasized that lifestyle choices significantly impact breast cancer risk. “A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet are foundations of disease prevention, including breast cancer. By making informed dietary choices and staying active, we reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer and ensure better overall health,” she noted.

The Call for Action

Dr. Quratulain Badar, Assistant Professor & Consultant Radiation Oncologist, highlighted the importance of starting early with breast self-examinations and regular screenings. Meanwhile, Dr. Afshan Shaikh, Assistant Professor & Women Imaging Specialist, stressed recognizing symptoms like asymmetry and discharge for timely intervention.

Moderating the 23rd ZU Dialogues, Dr. Adnan A. Jabbar, Professor & Chairman of the Oncology Department at Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, stated, “Breast cancer is a battle we can win, but only if we take the necessary steps to catch it early. We need to ensure that no woman or man feels isolated by this disease or the stigma surrounding it.”

Urgency in Raising Awareness

In her welcome address, Prof. Dr. Nida Hussain, Pro-Chancellor of Ziauddin University, focused on the urgency of raising awareness about breast cancer. “For too long, breast cancer has been shrouded in silence, with too many women suffering in isolation. This silence is deadly. We must work together to dismantle the cultural barriers that prevent early detection and treatment,” she said.

The event brought together healthcare professionals, survivors, and advocates to discuss the importance of early detection, screenings, and public awareness in combating this life-threatening disease. The session aimed to break the taboos surrounding breast cancer and emphasize the need for open conversations to encourage timely medical intervention.