Breast Cancer Awareness Day Marked Across PakistanHealth

The President also underlined the role of families and communities, saying women should feel able to discuss their health concerns openly and seek care without fear or hesitation, and that understanding and support from family members can help reduce the fear, misinformation and silence that may surround cancer. Schools, workplaces, community organisations, the media, civil society and healthcare professionals all have a part to play, he said, in ensuring accurate information reaches women and families across the country. He extended greetings to all those affected by the disease, their families and caregivers, and to the healthcare professionals working to support them.

<h2>Government&#8217;s free screening drive</h2> In his own message, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said the federal government was working with provincial governments and relevant local institutions to ensure access to essential healthcare services, including specialised cancer treatment facilities. He said a comprehensive strategy had been developed to promote early detection, ensure timely medical examinations, facilitate access to quality treatment and maintain continuity of care across the country.

The prime minister said free screening, diagnostic services and medicines were available at the Federal Breast Cancer Screening Centre at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, and that Lady Health Workers and primary healthcare staff were being trained to strengthen early detection and awareness. He paid particular attention to women in rural and underprivileged areas, where access to healthcare facilities is often limited, pledging that no Pakistani woman would be deprived of timely and quality treatment because of her geographical location or financial circumstances.

October is observed globally as breast cancer awareness month, and the day served as a reminder that timely medical attention, informed choices and strong family support can make a decisive difference in the lives of women and families facing the disease.