Facebook Live Session on Breast Cancer

​The Multi-Specialty team at the Aga Khan University Hospital conducted a Facebook Live whereby answering questions regarding Breast Cancer symptoms and treatments. The panelists included: 

Professor Shaista Khan – Head of Breast Surgery 

Dr. Muhammad Nauman Zahir – Assistant Professor Oncology

Dr. Asma Usman – Family Medicine 

Dr. Imrana Masroor – Associate Professor Radiology

With extensive research and advancement of technology during the last 30 years, effective treatments for Breast Cancer are now available and thus are much more effective. The general perception in our society is that the entire breast must be removed to treat it, that is not always the case, there are many options available that your doctor may advice. 

Early diagnosis is very necessary. Some risk factors include: Age (after 40), family history or obesity. It is good to learn that lumps are not painful in case it is breast cancer, therefore if you feel these in your armpit or your breast, examination must immediately be done. The Aga Khan University Hospital is offering a special package on Digital Mammogram till December 2018 where the cost of the examination is Rs. 2999. Some common symptoms include: lump in arm pit or the breast, discharge from nipples, skin changes, shape of breast changes. 

Some tests and treatments which are done and offered at the Aga Khan University Hospital include: Chemotherapy, Hormonal Treatment and Herceptin Injections. These treatments are offered only once test results are positive. 

Self-examination is necessary and must be done by an individual woman every month or every 3 months. For further diagnosis, doctor may advice: An Ultrasound – which is a basic test, a Screening Mammogram – for those who do not have any problems related to their breast or a Diagnostic Mammogram – for those who seem to have a problem. Yearly mammogram must be done after the age of 40. 

The Aga Khan University Hospital also offers welfare and patient behbud for needy patients. Husbands, Brothers and Sons must encourage their wives, sisters and mothers to have a yearly screening done.