RAWALPINDI, November 03 (APP): Health experts and business leaders have called on the government to ensure free mammogram testing at all public hospitals across Pakistan to promote early detection and save lives, as one in every ten Pakistani women faces the risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. The demand was made during a Breast Cancer Awareness Session organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) in …
Speakers call for free mammogram testing at public hospitals to combat rising breast cancer cases
RAWALPINDI, November 03 (APP): Health experts and business leaders have called on the government to ensure free mammogram testing at all public hospitals across Pakistan to promote early detection and save lives, as one in every ten Pakistani women faces the risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime.
The demand was made during a Breast Cancer Awareness Session organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) in collaboration with the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC).
The event was meant to strengthen the national campaign for early detection and prevention of breast cancer while encouraging joint action from the public and private sectors to address this growing public health challenge.
Speakers urged the establishment of large-scale, nationwide breast cancer screening and treatment facilities, warning that Pakistan records among the highest breast cancer incidence rates in Asia, with more than 92,000 new cases reported annually.
The RCCI had the honor of hosting Lt. Gen (R) Nigar Johar Khan, Pakistan’s first female Surgeon General of the Pakistan Army and RCCI’s Brand Ambassador, along with Fauzia Viqar, Federal Ombudsperson for Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace, as chief guests.
Both distinguished guests inspired the audience with their powerful messages on women’s health, empowerment, and the importance of timely medical care.
Addressing the gathering, RCCI President Usman Shaukat emphasized the crucial role of women in society and underscored the need for collective efforts to raise awareness and promote early diagnosis. “Through awareness, timely screening, and accessible healthcare, we can save thousands of precious lives across Pakistan,” he said.
Group Leader and former RCCI President Sohail Altaf highlighted the private sector’s responsibility in advancing preventive healthcare initiatives, stressing that free and accessible screening facilities are essential to detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.
The session concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from RCCI, SKMCH&RC, and participants to continue supporting awareness and advocacy efforts, ensuring that women across Pakistan have access to the care and knowledge needed to protect their health and wellbeing.
