Work

Empowering women: overcoming barriers to breast cancer screening in Pakistan

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The burden of breast cancer in Pakistan is staggering, with high incidence and mortality rates exacerbated by limited healthcare infrastructure, societal taboos, and cultural barriers. This manuscript reviews the challenges facing breast cancer detection and treatment in Pakistan, including late-stage diagnoses, inadequate access to medical facilities, and sociocultural norms inhibiting open dialogue and early intervention. Despite government initiatives and nongovernmental organization efforts, awareness remains low, with many women resorting to traditional healers or delaying medical attention due to financial constraints and cultural stigma. The manuscript highlights the critical need for comprehensive awareness campaigns targeting both urban and rural populations, supported by mobile clinics and mass media dissemination. It advocates for training healthcare workers, subsidizing screening methods, and engaging communities and international partners to improve access and affordability. By implementing these recommendations, Pakistan can make significant strides in early detection and treatment, ultimately alleviating the burden of breast cancer on its population and improving survival rates.

Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000004228

Authors: Sidhant Ochani, Bilquees Fatima, Khushi Ochani, Sumran Azam, Kaleem Ullah, Md. Asaduzzaman Nur

Institutions: Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi Medical and Dental College, Amiri Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Women's cancer prevention and management

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,850