Iqra University, in collaboration with the Syed Foundation, Colgate-Palmolive, and the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) Women Commission, organized a highly impactful Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar. The event aimed to raise awareness, promote early detection, and provide vital information on breast cancer prevention and treatment.
The seminar was attended by a distinguished line-up of guests, including Ms. Kanwal Hashmat Malik, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Board of Governor at Iqra University, who served as the chief guest. Also present were Ms. Fatima Lakhani, Chairperson of the POA Women Commission, Ms. Veena Masood, General Secretary of the POA Women Commission, Mr. Syed Wasim Hashmi, President of Syed Foundation, Dean-Arts, Design, Education and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Anjum Bano, Head of Department Corporate Communication, Marketing Haroon Khan, Public Relations, Events Manager Filza Rizwan, and Head of Department-Marketing, Supply chain Dr. Sara Khurram.
The event featured insightful presentations by leading medical professionals. Prof. Dr. Bushra Shirazi from the Department of Surgery at SIUT and Dr. Nida Wahid, Consultant Breast and General Surgeon at SIUT, shared crucial information about the state of breast cancer in Pakistan.
Ms. Fatima Lakhani, in her welcome address, highlighted the severity of breast cancer in Pakistan, stating, “In Pakistan, more than 80,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and the death rate is alarmingly high.” She emphasized the urgent need for awareness and early detection.
Prof. Dr. Bushra Shirazi pointed out that Pakistan has the highest breast cancer rate among all Asian countries. She also stressed that younger women in the country are increasingly at risk. “In Pakistan, the youth is more vulnerable to this disease,” she informed the audience.
Dr. Nida Wahid provided valuable advice on the importance of regular screening, recommending that women perform self-examinations at least once a month and undergo a medical examination annually. “Women should be aware, go for screenings, as early detection saves lives,” Dr. Wahid urged.
Both Dr. Shirazi and Dr. Wahid emphasized that breast cancer is not exclusive to women—many men also suffer from the disease, and it is critical to break the stigma and promote broader awareness.
The seminar concluded with the distribution of shields and souvenirs to the esteemed guests and speakers in recognition of their contributions. All attendees expressed their gratitude to Iqra University, Syed Foundation, and the POA for organizing such an informative and life-saving event.
Iqra University, in partnership with the Syed Foundation and the POA Women Commission, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting health and wellness across Pakistan by hosting initiatives that raise awareness and provide crucial education on critical health issues like breast cancer.
