reast cancer, the most common cancer in women worldwide, is a growing public health issue in Pakistan. Every year, approximately 90,000 women in Pakistan are diagnosed with this life-threatening disease, with an alarming 40,000 deaths. Pakistan has one of the highest rates of breast cancer in Asia, a fact that should concern us all. The situation is worsened by factors such as cultural stigma, lack of awareness, late-stage diagnosis and inadequate access to healthcare services.

This article aims to explore the reasons behind Pakistan’s breast cancer crisis, dispel common myths and emphasise the importance of education, early detection and government support. As October marks the breast cancer awareness month, it is the perfect opportunity to address these concerns and push for positive changes.

One of the primary reasons for a high mortality rate from breast cancer in Pakistan is the delayed diagnosis of the disease. Cultural norms and stigma discourage many women from seeking medical attention early. Many Pakistani women tend to ignore symptoms like breast lumps or swelling, either due to fear or because they feel uncomfortable discussing such issues. By the time they do consult a doctor, the cancer is often at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult and less effective.

This problem is more pronounced in rural areas where healthcare infrastructure is more limited. Mammograms, an essential tool for early detection, are often unavailable. In fact, many women in villages do not have access to basic healthcare facilities, let alone specialised cancer treatments. The scarcity of trained oncologists and radiologists exacerbates the situation, further delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The financial burden of breast cancer treatment is another significant challenge. For many women in Pakistan, treatment options like chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery are far beyond their financial means. While the country’s healthcare system is already strained, the high cost of treating breast cancer adds to the struggles of families already living in poverty. Healthcare policies addressing breast cancer are insufficient. While there are some awareness campaigns, they often fail to reach the women who need them the most.

Myths and misconceptions

While awareness about breast cancer is slowly increasing, widespread misinformation still contributes to the problem. This misinformation not only delays treatment but also fosters unnecessary fear among women.

Following are some common myths about breast cancer and facts that debunk them:

Myth 1: It only affects women

One of the most persistent myths is that only women can develop breast cancer. Although women account for a majority of the cases, men are also at risk—even though the latter is less common. Around 1 percent of breast cancer cases occur in men. Due to lack of awareness, male breast cancer is often diagnosed at a much later stage. Men, too, should be vigilant about changes in their breast tissue and seek medical advice when necessary.

Myth 2: It is a death sentence

In Pakistan, many people still believe that breast cancer is an incurable disease. This misconception is harmful because it discourages women from seeking early treatment. Breast cancer is treatable, especially when detected early. In countries with advanced healthcare systems, the survival rate for localised breast cancer is over 90 percent. Expanding access to screening services in Pakistan could save thousands of lives.

Myth 3: Every breast lump is cancerous

Many women panic upon discovering a lump in their breast, assuming it must be cancer. However, not all lumps are cancerous. Most breast lumps are benign and may result from infections or hormonal changes. Nevertheless, it is essential to get any lump checked by a doctor to ensure proper diagnosis.

Myth 4: It only affects older women

While breast cancer is more common in older women, younger women are also at risk. Unfortunately, younger women in Pakistan may be less likely to seek medical advice when they detect changes in their breasts. Awareness campaigns should stress the importance of regular check-ups for all women, regardless of their age.

Myth 5: It is hereditary

Many people assume that if no one in their family has had breast cancer, they are not at risk. In reality, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have had no family history of the disease. Factors like age, lifestyle and environmental influences also play significant roles. Routine screenings are crucial for everyone, not just those with a family history of breast cancer.

Myth 6: Healthy lifestyle alone can prevent it

While living a healthy lifestyle—exercising, eating well and avoiding harmful habits like smoking—can reduce the risk of breast cancer, it cannot prevent it entirely. Some risk factors, such as genetics and hormonal factors, are beyond an individual’s control. Regular screening and early detection are essential to reducing the impact of breast cancer.

October is a time when the world comes together to raise awareness about this disease. In Pakistan, where the healthcare system faces significant challenges, this month provides an opportunity to educate the people about breast cancer and dispel myths surrounding it. Awareness campaigns help normalise conversations about breast cancer, encouraging women to prioritise their health and seek medical attention early.

Public health campaigns play a crucial role in breaking down cultural stigmas, especially in rural areas, where talking about breast health is still a taboo. Men also need to be included in these conversations, as they can support the women in their lives and should be aware of their own risks.

Governments and healthcare providers must work together to prioritise breast cancer screening and treatment programmes. Policies need to focus on expanding access to diagnostic tools like mammograms and ensuring that healthcare professionals are trained to recognise early signs of the disease.

A call to action

Breast cancer is a growing concern in Pakistan. It is up to all of us—governments, healthcare institutions, NGOs and communities—to take action. Raising awareness is the first step in combating this disease, but that must be followed by concrete actions, such as improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to screening and reducing the cost of treatments.

For women in Pakistan, particularly those in rural areas, access to reliable information and healthcare services is critical. Public health campaigns need to reach every corner of the country, breaking down cultural barriers and making breast cancer a topic that can be discussed openly. By prioritising awareness, education and early detection, we can save lives and reduce the burden of breast cancer in Pakistan.

The fight against breast cancer in Pakistan requires a collective effort. Let us utilise this month as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the power of awareness. Together, we can work towards a healthier future for all women in Pakistan.

The writer is the head of the Oncology Department, King Edward Medical University/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore