First Lady Begum Samina Arif Alvi was the chief guest here at an event in Kiran Foundation Schoo on Thursday. Her visit was in continuation to her series of visits to raise public awareness regarding breast cancer across the country. The First Lady was welcomed by Sabina Khatri, the chairperson Kiran Foundation. During her speech at the event, Begum Samina Alvi highlighted the importance of early diagnosis of the disease, “If you detect breast cancer early, it can be treated and one can live a normal life,” Begum Alvi said, Ignoring the symptoms of the disease can have dire consequences, she added. Expressing her concerns on lack of awareness of the disease specially in far flung areas, she expressed that discussion about breast cancer is not encouraged in these areas; the situation is worsened by the dearth of medical support system in these areas. Emphasizing the need for self-examination, the first lady said that self-examination is a must for early detection of the disease. Don’t ignore any changes in your body and consult the physician in case of any symptoms, she added. Speakers at the event also discussed a number of issues relating to disease, Dr. Samia, a renowned doctor, explained in detail the procedure of self-examination and also discussed the issues related to the disease to dispel the taboos attached to it. Miss Asma Nabeel, another participant and a cancer survivor urged the participants to stay Strong during the disease and do not ignore the early signals of your body. She further said that lifestyle changes and consumption of healthy food can reduce the deadly disease of breast Cancer. Earlier, Begum Alvi was shown around the school by the chairperson Sabina Khatri and her team. She appreciated the efforts put in by the administration for the education of the marginalized segment of the society. Begum Samina Alvi appreciated the role of media, and civil society and armed forces in creating awareness for the disease, she urged upon the philanthropists and civil society to contribute towards this cause for provision of improved health facilities to the patients of breast cancer.
