<p>On Thursday, 12 October 2017, The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) held a Breast Cancer Awareness Talk, led by our team of internationally trained Breast Surgeons, Oncologists, Radiologists and Specialist Nurses, to spread awareness about breast cancer and the importance of getting early and regular screening. This session was held at the AKU Auditorium, attended by members of the general public, medical professionals, students, survivors, cancer patients as well as supporters of the cause.</p><p>AKUH Breast Surgeon, Dr. Sana Zeeshan, said that approximately one in every eight women in Pakistan is diagnosed with breast cancer and the mortality rate is very high. This is due to lack of awareness and screening because of which patients are not diagnosed and treated in time. In Pakistan, due to our society and domestic norms, women generally are reluctant to come forward and share their problems; however any concerns must not be ignored as they may save a life.</p><p>Speaking at the session, Dr. Imrana Masroor, Associate Professor of Radiology, stated: &quot;Mammography can correctly identify 87% of breast cancer cases. A lump is not always cancer; however, it is important for women aged 40 and above to have routine mammogram screenings, regardless of whether they feel any changes in their breast, have a family history or <g class="gr_ gr_33 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear ContextualSpelling multiReplace" id="33" data-gr-id="33" style="color: #434343; font-size: 14px;">high risk</g> factors present. This is important so that cancer can be detected and treated early.&quot;</p><p>Dr. Abida K. Sattar, Breast and Oncoplastic surgeon, explained: &quot;The goal is to catch <g class="gr_ gr_26 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear Grammar only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="26" data-gr-id="26" style="color: #434343; font-size: 14px;">the cancer</g> early before it forms a large lump or exhibits other symptoms. The sooner you detect <g class="gr_ gr_27 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear Grammar only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="27" data-gr-id="27" style="color: #434343; font-size: 14px;">the cancer</g>, the sooner it can be treated, the higher the chance of recovery and better outcomes.&quot;</p><p>Dr. Zarka Samoon, Senior Instructor, Oncology spoke about radiation and chemotherapy, and the side effects of cancer treatment. She explained how cancer treatment is tailored to each patient, and how side effects vary patient to patient. She also spoke about AKUH&#39;s &quot;I Will Stay Beautiful&quot; Patient Support Group for cancer patients and survivors.</p><p>The audience then heard from a brave breast cancer survivor, Ms. Rifat Shah, who spoke about her battle with breast cancer, and how she kept her spirits high during her tough journey.</p><p>During the session, free screening mammogram vouchers were also distributed among 10 lucky audience members. These were proudly sponsored by IFG, as part of their efforts to create access to screening for breast cancer, which is the key to timely treatment of this silent disease. </p>