Early Detection Can Save Lives: Experts Urge Women Not to Ignore Breast Health
Rabab Ibrahim
Early Detection Can Save Lives: Experts Urge Women Not to Ignore Breast Health
Karachi Press Club, IMPAKT and Essa Laboratory jointly organise breast cancer awareness session, highlighting early diagnosis, self-examination and regular medical screening.
KARACHI, October 29, 2026: Karachi Press Club, in collaboration with IMPAKT (Innovative Methods for Promoting Advancement, Knowledge and Transformation) and Essa Laboratory, organised a special breast cancer awareness session at Karachi Press Club, where medical experts highlighted the importance of recognising early symptoms, self-examination, timely diagnosis and regular medical check-ups.
Speaking at the session, Dr. Arooba Ismail stressed that awareness of breast cancer and recognition of its early signs play a vital role in seeking timely medical attention. She urged women not to neglect their health and to pay attention to any unusual changes in their bodies.
Explaining the possible warning signs of breast cancer, she mentioned unusual changes in breast size or shape, dimpling of the skin, inward turning of the nipple, bloody or unusual nipple discharge, and a new lump in the armpit. She advised anyone experiencing such symptoms to seek medical evaluation without delay. She clarified that not every lump is cancerous, but medical examination is necessary to determine its cause.
Dr. Arooba also demonstrated the method of breast self-examination and explained that women should regularly observe their breasts and underarm areas for any new lumps or changes. She emphasised that self-examination is an important awareness tool but cannot replace clinical examinations or mammography.
She further highlighted the importance of breast cancer screening, particularly for women aged 40 and above, while explaining that the appropriate timing and need for mammography should be determined according to age, individual risk factors and medical advice.
Emphasising the importance of family medical history, she advised women to inform their doctors if there is a history of breast cancer or other related cancers in their families. She also pointed out that breast cancer can affect men as well as women, urging men to seek medical attention if they notice a lump, nipple discharge or any unusual skin changes.
Dr. Arooba also discussed the importance of breastfeeding, describing mother's milk as essential for a child's health and development. She stressed the need for accurate information so that mothers can make informed decisions without being influenced by misleading commercial claims.
Another guest speaker, Dr. Farhana Feroze Qazi, emphasised the importance of a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition and physical activity. She advised women to limit junk food and excessive sugar consumption while incorporating fruits, vegetables and nutritious meals into their daily routines.
She said women should not feel embarrassed or hesitant to discuss their health concerns or physical changes. Social pressure and hesitation often discourage women from seeking timely medical assistance, which can lead to delays in diagnosis. She encouraged women to openly discuss their health concerns with family members and healthcare professionals.
Dr. Farhana further observed that women often prioritise their responsibilities towards their families, children and loved ones while neglecting their own health. She stressed that looking after personal health is equally important and that any unusual changes in the breast or underarm area should never be ignored. Proper medical examination and relevant tests are essential for accurate diagnosis.
In their concluding remarks, both doctors emphasised that awareness, early detection and timely treatment are crucial in the fight against breast cancer. They urged both women and men to remain attentive to unusual bodily changes, seek medical advice and undergo appropriate screening according to their age and individual risk factors.
Speaking on the occasion, Karachi Press Club Secretary Aslam Khan welcomed the initiative and described such awareness programmes as an important need of the time. He said it was encouraging to see women openly discussing critical health issues such as breast cancer and participating in awareness sessions to obtain accurate medical information.
He observed that social hesitation and silence surrounding such diseases had gradually begun to decline, with more women becoming aware of their health and taking positive steps towards prevention and timely medical care. He appreciated the efforts of the Karachi Press Club Women's Committee and encouraged the continuation of similar awareness initiatives.
Aslam Khan also appreciated the efforts of IMPAKT founders and co-founders Rubab Ibrahim, Mona Siddiqui and Kulsoom Jahan, expressing hope that more programmes focusing on health, awareness and other socially significant issues would be organised for women and the journalist community in the future.
At the conclusion of the event, Karachi Press Club Secretary Aslam Khan presented honorary shields and traditional Ajrak gifts to both guest doctors in recognition of their participation.
