'Breast Cancer' Diagnosis At Stage One Only 4% In Pakistan, Oncologist Urges Breaking Stigma

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Oct, 2025) Oncologist Thursday stresses the urgent need to break stigma, raise awareness and ensure early detection as only 4% of breast cancer cases in Pakistan are diagnosed at stage one, urging women not to stay silent and to seek timely help.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, health expert Dr Hadia Aziz a Medical consultant/Oncologist at CDA Islamabad hospital emphasized the critical need for early detection of breast cancer in Pakistan, where only 4% of cases are diagnosed at the initial stage.

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates, making awareness and timely screening vital. It is essential for women to understand that catching breast cancer early can save lives, she added.

Recognizing the symptoms of breast cancer can help women seek medical advice without delay. Common warning signs include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple discharge or inversion, and persistent breast pain.

If any of these symptoms are noticed, women should immediately consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.

Precautions to reduce the risk of breast cancer include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption and performing monthly breast self-examinations. Regular clinical check-ups and mammograms, especially for women over 40 or those with a family history, are crucial steps in early detection.

Despite the rising cases, stigma and fear around breast cancer still prevent many women from seeking timely treatment, she added.

Experts urge society to break this silence and support open conversations to reduce misconceptions. Promoting awareness and educating communities about breast cancer will empower women to prioritize their health and seek help without hesitation.