Dr. Samina Asif, Clinical Oncologist, Head of Oncology Department, AECH NORI
Breast cancer is one of the major causes of death in women, but the topic of the disease is still stigmatized in most parts of the world. The disease cuts across all the barriers, cutting across race, socioeconomic status, and age. Worldwide, breast cancer accounts for 24% of all the cancers diagnosed in women and 15% of deaths due to cancer, the most diagnosed cancer in most parts of the world.
According to GLOBOCAN 2022, Pakistan has over 30,000 new breast cancer cases reported in women every year, with an estimated mortality of 26%. Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has 21 Cancer Hospitals across the country, and records from the PAEC Cancer Registry show that breast cancer makes up 35-45% of all cancers diagnosed in different regions. Particularly, at Atomic Energy Cancer Hospital (AECH) NORI, breast cancer accounts for about 44% of all cancers, with over 1400 breast cancer patients registered every year. The PAEC has played a major role in cancer diagnosis and treatment in Pakistan by offering state-of-the-art screening, diagnostic, and treatment services through its 21 hospitals.
Screening for breast cancer is important in the early detection of the disease, improving the treatment outcome when diagnosed at an initial stage. AECH NORI is a leading member of the 21 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals in the country and is among one of the best facilities for cancer treatment. With the advancements in the field of cancer management, we have acquired the most advanced equipment and expertise, available for all cancer patients irrespective of age, socioeconomic status and stage of the disease.
To raise awareness and educate others, there is a need to understand the etiology, clinical features, and diagnostic skills involved in assessing and diagnosing the disease. The knowledge of screening and diagnostic tests for confirmation and the guidelines for referring patients to specialist practitioners must also be known. It is therefore necessary to create awareness regarding breast cancer screening not just among the general population but also to convey message to other health professionals and general practitioners, so that they can advise and refer patients to specialized cancer hospitals. So, everyone should be educated about it.
In observation of Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening, AECH NORI has made meaningful strides towards increased awareness and education. The hospital is decorated with pink lights and ribbons to bring attention to this noble and worthy cause. Informative brochures about breast cancer and self-examination are handed out, and educational material such as posters, flyers, and banners with major messages are placed in waiting areas, at the hospital entrance, in the reception area, and in and around the lawns and parking lots.
AECH NORI has a fully equipped Breast Cancer Clinic, which is available throughout the year. Our services are inclusive of in-depth consultations with an array of information on breast cancer topics ranging from genetics to early detection, prevention methods, counseling, and complete examinations. We provide screening investigations like mammograms, sonomammograms, MRI breast, and FNAC or biopsy as indicated. Our diagnostic services consist of mammograms with tomosynthesis, contrast-enhanced mammograms, and stereotactic biopsies that are all accessible all year round. More than 3500 mammograms are carried out at AECH NORI per year. Every year, about 2000 women visit the AECH NORI Breast Cancer Clinic for screening, with an increased number of visits in the month of October.
In addition to the availability of services at the institute our doctors provide the facilities in other cities as well. Our team including oncologist, radiologist and histopathologist visit other cities, educate them and provide breast cancer screening facilities. We further guide them to AECH NORI or other AECH Hospital nearby if needed.
During October, which is identified as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are increasing our efforts at reaching schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, medical institutions, and the community. Activities involve awareness lectures, seminars, interviews, documentaries, videos, awareness walks, and also through print media, disseminating educational material. We focus on imparting education regarding how to practice breast self-examination, when and why to start screening investigations, when to consult a doctor, and making information available to all.
It is high time for us to create awareness among women for early detection and alleviate myths and misconceptions of the disease. This year’s slogan “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters” further highlights that every breast cancer patient has to go through a difficult time and every one suffering from breast cancer has a different story to deal with. The entire journey matters and we are the ones who can provide support to the breast cancer patients and help them fighting the various aspects of the disease.
Let us engage in Breast Cancer Awareness Campaigns where we can educate others, help in possible prevention and detection of breast cancer at an early stage. Every woman should have access to Breast Cancer Screening services; this should be our goal. Let us be there for breast cancer patients during the difficult times and do our best to make it a bit easier for them.
