ICCI breast cancer awareness session:
Coordinated efforts needed to check alarming Rise in Breast Cancer: Governor KPK
ISLAMABAD ( WEB NEWS )
The high incidence of breast cancer in Pakistan is alarming and demands critical attention to check its spread and create awareness about it. With approximately 1 in 9 Pakistani women at risk of developing breast cancer, the country faces a significant health challenge. This has been stated by Governor KPK Faisal Karim Kundi while addressing the awareness programme on breast cancer organized by Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Wednesday.
He said that if breast cancer was detected at early stages, 99% of its patients could be saved and could live healthy and normal lives. “If the cancer is detected at the 3rd and 4th stages, the 5-year survival rate is up to 86% and 28% respectively, which can be significantly increased if detected and treated at an early stage”, he added
He further said that we need to empower women in financial and economic terms and provide space to them in society and public places so that they could perform all the routine functions without intimidation or fear and that a harassment-free environment for women would help them contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country.
The Governor while highly appreciating the ICCI for organizing this important informative and productive event said that there is a dire need to host such significant events in KPK also and that he will happily facilitate if the ICCI holds any such function at Governor House, Peshawar.
On his part President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Nasir Mansoor Qureshi pledged fullest support for the awareness campaign by recognizing the Chamber’s social responsibility, he said that hiding the disease in the name of taboo is not a solution and it is essential to speak upon it to help the women get early diagnosis and thus protect their lives. He said to address the challenges pertaining to the wellbeing of women, the ICCI would continue to extend them support on the health issues such as breast cancer.
He said that this is the right time to act now because every effort counts in the fight against breast cancer adding that collective action from healthcare professionals, policymakers and the community is crucial to improve breast cancer outcomes in Pakistan.
Dr. Saeeda Yasmeen, General Surgeon and Breast Expert in her detailed and comprehensive presentation highlighted the symptoms of the disease by emphasizing immediate treatment as early as possible on its appearance.
Cartoonist Ms. Nigar Nazar said that we have to resort to collective action against the fatal disease instead of resorting to mere campaigns.
Faryal Ali Gauhar, Political Economist and former UN Ambassador on Population Fund sensitized the attendees on the issue and highlighted the collective role in making Pakistan a healthier one.
ICCI Executive Member Fatima Azeem in her vote of thanks said that ICCI is fully cognizant of its social responsibilities and will continue to perform them devotedly.
ICCI Senior vice President Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Vice President Nasir Mehmood Chaudhry, ICCI executives especially the students attended the session in large number.