Expressing concern over the high incidence of breast cancer in Pakistan, experts have said accurate information and knowledge can help in recognizing early signs of cancer.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, they were expressing their views on a seminar held in Karachi Tuesday to mark 'Pink Ribbon Day', the International Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
The speakers highlighted the problem of breast cancer and said that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide and Pakistan has the highest incidence of the disease in Asia.
Prof Dr Rufina Soomro, Liaquat National Hospital Head of the Surgery Department said that early detection was the key to protection against breast cancer. She also called for creating public awareness about the disease diagnosis and treatment. According to research, 90% of women with breast cancer remain healthy for a long time after treatment, she added.
She added that according to statistics, about 13,766 breast cancer patients were diagnosed in Pakistan every year and about 7,000 breast cancer surgeries were performed.
Dr Badar Jahan said that the fear and misconceptions about this deadly disease can be removed through accurate information.
A large number of women from all walks of life besides the medical community attended the seminar.
Reporter: Javed Qaim Khani