- Advertisement -
ISLAMABAD, Feb 03 (APP):National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Tuesday underscored the need for greater awareness, early diagnosis and coordinated action to tackle cancer, describing it as a global challenge affecting millions across age, gender and nationality.
In a statement issued on World Cancer Day, the speaker said the annual observance served as a reminder of the importance of timely detection, effective treatment and preventive measures to reduce the burden of the disease.
Referring to this year’s theme, United by Unique, Ayaz Sadiq said every patient’s experience with cancer was different, and stressed that health policies should reflect individual patient needs.
He emphasised the shared responsibility of governments, healthcare professionals, civil society, media and the public in addressing the challenge.
While acknowledging improvements in outcomes due to advances in research and medical facilities, the speaker said healthy lifestyles, regular medical check-ups and early diagnosis remained critical.
He called for collective efforts to raise awareness about cancer risks and promote timely screening.
Reaffirming parliament’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare sector, Mr Sadiq said legislative measures would continue to support improved access to cancer treatment and research.
He also highlighted the national HPV vaccination campaign launched in September 2025, which provides free vaccines to girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women.
Urging wider awareness, he called on parents to ensure their daughters were vaccinated and appealed to civil society and the media to help dispel misconceptions.
The speaker praised the Punjab government and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for enhancing cancer care facilities, particularly the establishment of Pakistan’s first state-of-the-art Co-EBL Cancer Treatment Centre in Lahore, aimed at expanding access to modern treatment, especially for underprivileged patients.
Expressing solidarity with cancer patients and their families, Ayaz Sadiq urged society to adopt a compassionate and supportive approach to help patients face the disease with confidence.
Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah also stressed the urgency of increasing cancer awareness and ensuring equitable access to healthcare, calling for a coordinated national strategy to address the challenge.