The International Day Against Breast Cancer is observed today to raise awareness about the disease and to promote timely diagnosis and treatment. This year’s theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month is “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone.” This theme reminds us of the importance of support, solidarity, and care for every person dealing with this disease. Breast cancer is not only the most frequently diagnosed cancer but is also the leading cause of death among women in low and middle-income countries. The incidence of breast cancer is more common in South Asian countries, majorly due to a lack of breast cancer awareness in women. In our country, one in every nine women is at risk of breast cancer and the late diagnosis of the disease considerably contributes to the high mortality rate. Moreover, economic obstacles deter many from receiving the require treatment. We need to raise awareness about this disease by addressing misconceptions and prioritizing healthy lifestyle adjustments. Pakistan needs broader level efforts to educate women about breast cancer, regular self-examination and mammographic screening. Our policymakers and health officials need to plan and prioritize disease control activities, including improved treatment and individual patient care. We need to ensure that our women have access to screening and early detection services which are critical in detecting breast cancer early and saving lives. Besides, the role of media is critical in raising awareness about this disease. I would like to urge print, electronic and social media to educate people about breast cancer to save thousands of precious lives. Let us recommit to giving more support, care, and hope to patients, families and survivors of breast cancer. I am hopeful that our collective efforts at the individual, institutional and national levels would enable us to improve the overall health and well-being of the people and we would be able to reduce the mortality rate due to breast cancer in Pakistan. --------- *Not to be published/telecast before 19th Oct, 2024*
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