Karachi: Acting Vice-Chancellor Ziauddin University Professor Dr. Abbas Zafar says that breast cancer is not just a battle to be fought within the four walls of the hospital, but it is a battle against the silence, stigma and ignorance that affects the lives of affected women. At stake. We have to break down these barriers, challenge social taboos, and empower everyone to get an early diagnosis, because countless lives are at stake.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Ziauddin University Prof. Dr. Abbas Zafar spoke during the 23rd interactive series of Zoo Dialogues on the theme “Fighting Breast Cancer: Early Diagnosis, Saves Lives”.
The purpose of the session was to create awareness about breast cancer, draw societal attention to this serious problem, and highlight the importance of early diagnosis and screening.
“We all have a responsibility to spread the message, especially in communities where breast cancer is still considered taboo,” said Dr. Abbas Zafar, stressing the need for early detection of breast cancer. She added that stigma prevents many women from seeking timely treatment, putting their lives at risk.
During the session, survivors highlighted the importance of early diagnosis through their stories.
Seema Kamil, former deputy governor of State Bank of Pakistan and a survivor, said many women avoid discussing breast cancer and hesitate to get screened, which proves harmful to them.
Dr. Faizullah Abbasi, former vice chancellor of Dawood University, and a male survivor, said, “You know your body better than anyone else, and don’t ignore any unusual symptoms.” He added that early diagnosis is the key to saving lives.
Clinical nutritionist Amina Mujeeb Khan, highlighting the impact of lifestyle on breast cancer, said that a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are helpful in preventing diseases.
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Dr. Quratul Ain Badr, Radiation Oncologist, and Dr. Afshan Shaikh also emphasized the importance of early screening and self-examination.
Hosting the event, Dr. Adnan A. Jabbar, Chairman, Oncology Department, Ziauddin Hospital, said that breast cancer is a battle we can win, but it requires early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Prof. Dr. Nida Hussain, Pro-Chancellor, Ziauddin University, said that silence on breast cancer puts many women’s lives at risk. “This silence is fatal, and together we must break down the cultural barriers that hinder treatment and diagnosis.
The aim of the session was to spread awareness about breast cancer and to highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and screening so that there is an open discussion about this serious problem in the society and to encourage women to seek medical help in time.
