By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE, October 20: Ameer-ud-Din Medical College Principal Prof. Dr. Jodat Saleem has stressed that breast cancer remains a major health challenge for women, but early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve recovery prospects.

He urged women not to let social stigma, fear or negligence prevent them from seeking medical care, emphasising that recognising early symptoms and consulting a doctor promptly can save lives. He also highlighted the importance of collective efforts to raise awareness and encourage regular medical examinations.

In this regard, an awareness walk focusing on breast cancer prevention, early detection and treatment was organised by Gynae Unit-I at Lahore General Hospital (LGH) under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Jodat Saleem. Vice Principal Prof. Dr. Muhammad Shahid, Medical Superintendent Prof. Dr. Faryad Hussain, Prof. Tauseef Fatima, Professor of Gynaecology Dr. Amna Ahsan Cheema, Prof. Asia Khanum, Dr. Saira Zeeshan, faculty members, young doctors and nursing staff participated enthusiastically.

MS LGH Prof. Dr. Faryad Hussain highlighted that the hospital provides modern diagnostic and treatment facilities. He said approximately 7,000 patients were examined at the hospital’s outpatient breast clinic last year.

He stressed the need to spread accurate information and encourage women to consult specialist doctors about suspicious symptoms instead of ignoring them. He also called for sustained awareness campaigns to promote responsible healthcare practices.

Professor of Gynaecology Dr. Amna Ahsan Cheema and Professor of Surgery Tauseef Fatima emphasised the importance of prompt medical evaluation of any breast lump or unusual changes. They explained that self-examination can help women recognise changes, but a professional medical assessment is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

They added that the need for and timing of mammography should be determined by a doctor, taking into account a woman’s age, medical condition and individual risk factors.

Vice Principal Prof. Dr. Muhammad Shahid said the responsibilities of medical institutions extend beyond treatment to include public awareness about disease prevention and healthy lifestyles. He emphasised that reliable medical information should reach every household through traditional media and social media platforms, enabling women to obtain timely guidance and avoid misleading advice.

Medical experts informed the media that clinical examination, mammography and, where necessary, biopsy are important tools for diagnosing breast cancer. They also highlighted the benefits of a balanced diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight for overall well-being.

Women with a family history of breast cancer were advised to seek professional assessment of their individual risk. Experts explained that treatment options depend on the type and stage of the disease and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy.

Participants pledged to extend breast cancer awareness to all segments of society, encouraging women to seek timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and reliable medical guidance for healthier and safer lives.

Prof. Hassan Salman Malik, Dr. Karimullah, Dr. Abdul Aziz, Dr. Amara Akhtar, Dr. Nadia Arshad, Dr. Fatima Asif, Dr. Sundas Tahir and Principal of the College of Nursing Samina Kausar, along with a large number of healthcare professionals, were also present.

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