Brief
Shaukat Khanum launches breast cancer awareness month with student pledge
More than 400 university students pledged to check their breasts as the hospital highlighted early detection in Pakistan.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre opened Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Oct. 2, featuring medical experts, survivors and over 400 students from 30 universities who took an “I pledge to check” oath, dailytimes.com.pk reported.
What happened
The event showcased doctors urging women to know normal breast changes, perform self‑exams and seek care early. Survivors Gulnaz Ayaz and Amina Ejaz shared personal stories, while sponsors including Sapphire and Mothercare provided a lucky‑draw prize.
What the reports add
World Health Organization estimates cite roughly 44,000 new breast‑cancer cases annually in Pakistan, making it the nation’s most common cancer. Dr. Mazhar Ali Shah said early detection can lead to a 98 % cure rate, and Dr. Amina Khan noted that about 80 % of surgeries at the centre are now breast‑conserving.
What was said
Dr. Mazhar Ali Shah told dailytimes.com.pk, “Know your normal” and watch for painless lumps, nipple discharge or skin changes. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Aasim Yusuf added, “Cancer is not a death sentence, but early diagnosis is critical.”
How it came about
SKMCH&RC pioneered Pakistan’s first breast‑cancer awareness activities in 1995 and is expanding its outreach as it prepares to open a third, largest hospital in Karachi by December.
Key facts
- More than 400 students from 30 universities took a breast‑cancer awareness pledge. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- WHO estimates about 44,000 new breast‑cancer cases each year in Pakistan. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- Dr. Mazhar Ali Shah said early detection can achieve a 98 % cure rate. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- Around 80 % of breast surgeries at Shaukat Khanum are now breast‑conserving. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- The hospital plans to open its third and largest facility in Karachi by December. (dailytimes.com.pk)
Sources
- [1] dailytimes.com.pk — originally reported as “Shaukat Khanum organises breast cancer awareness month”
