ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari have issued a joint appeal urging women to seek timely medical advice on Breast Cancer Awareness Day, placing early detection and accessible treatment at the center of a national health push.
President Highlights Family Toll
In his message, President Zardari said breast cancer affected thousands of Pakistani families, with its consequences extending beyond patients to touch the social and emotional lives of entire households. He encouraged women to pay attention to changes in their health and to seek appropriate medical advice without delay.
The president called on families and society to create an environment in which women can openly discuss health concerns and access medical facilities without fear or hesitation. He also stressed the need for emotional, social and family support for women living with breast cancer and for those who have completed treatment.
Prime Minister Pledges Nationwide Access
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said awareness, early detection, quality treatment and continued care were critical concerns, and affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring no Pakistani woman is deprived of timely, quality treatment because of her location or financial circumstances.
He said the government was working with federal, provincial and local institutions to improve access to primary healthcare services and specialised cancer treatment, with particular attention to women in rural and underserved areas where access remains limited.
- Lady health workers are playing a key role in raising awareness of symptoms, self-examination and the importance of timely medical visits.
- Special training is being provided to strengthen the capacity of primary healthcare staff in early detection.
- The Federal Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Centre at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) offers screening, diagnostics, free medicines and referrals for suspected cases.
- The government is partnering with public health programmes and private organisations to expand screening access.
The prime minister urged families, the media, religious leaders, educational institutions, civil society and medical professionals to help break the silence and hesitation surrounding breast cancer and encourage women to seek timely examinations and treatment.
First Lady Calls for Openness and Support
First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari urged women to prioritise their health and consult qualified medical professionals without hesitation whenever they have concerns. She said women affected by breast cancer need the support of their families and society during this difficult period.
She appreciated the contributions of doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, volunteers, patient support organisations and the media, stressing the need for open discussion and accurate information so that no woman feels alone while seeking treatment or facing the disease.
