Breast cancer awareness: A contrast of its history in Pakistan

An ode to breast cancer awareness:

As the month of October comes to an end with its sea of pink ribbons, it has reminded us once again of a critical issue that deserves more than just symbolic gestures: breast cancer awareness.

As the World Cancer Research Fund International reported 2.3 million cases reported across the globe in 2022 alone, breast cancer awareness cannot afford to be just a another point you tick off from a checklist. While shades of pink symbolize its importance worldwide, in Pakistan, most people still shy away from open discussions about the disease.

Open dialogue on this subject remains critical but is often hindered. Medically known as ductal or lobular carcinoma, it arises when cells in the breast’s ducts or lobules multiply abnormally, forming tumors that lead to lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm. 

Why is breast cancer still a taboo topic in Pakistan?

Breast cancer awareness discussion is often noticed being distorted by cultural barriers or shame; despite multiple efforts taking place for quite many years that push for year-round awareness, community education, and open dialogue.

Take the work of PinkRibbon Pakistan, which has tirelessly campaigned since 2004 to promote breast cancer awareness nationwide. Despite their commendable efforts, the resistance remains formidable, largely due to societal norms.

Real stories lay bare the emotional and social toll these stigmas inflict. Shabana, an elderly woman from Karachi, recalls a time when breast cancer was unspeakable.

“We could never think of talking about ‘this’ (breast cancer) with such boldness,” she said, still hesitant. “But in light of today, I think Maano, my close friend, could have been saved. She wouldn’t have suffered in silence, at least.”

A steady progress of dialogue about breast cancer:

With the dawn of a new millennium, awareness began to spread through ads and campaigns, though breast cancer was still less prominently addressed than other cancers. Today, cases like Mona Batool’s family, who regularly practiced self-checks, by the grace of early educational awareness, highlight progress. Yet, stigmas still persist. Mona recounted how a 35-year-old relative of her family hesitated to discuss the diagnosis due to societal pressure. “They kept thinking, ‘What will people say?’” she shared.

And even though awareness ads may have become more frequent in recent years, yet, there is a gap in truly addressing the deeply rooted stigmas in people’s minds. Rida, a medical student from Lahore, witnessed firsthand how early detection saved her mother, who is now a stage-II breast cancer survivor. But why should such education and medical access remain limited only to those who know where to look?

Similarly, Khadija, whose mother was diagnosed with stage-III breast cancer in 2022, said, “We’re not an open-minded society. The first time I booked an appointment, I couldn’t say ‘breast OPD’ and used the term ‘chest’ instead. But this journey taught me it’s just another part of the body.”

For many families, breast cancer remains veiled in silence, with relatives discouraged from openly discussing diagnoses or even basic medical terms. Why should Khadija, and so many women like her and her mother, feel hesitant to even mention “breast OPD” in the first place?

Through the lens of a breast cancer survivor:

Our culture, often tends to glorify survivors via campaigns, overshadowing the real struggle and pain of battling breast cancer. Beyond the medical fight, survivors face a shift in self-perception as treatment reshapes not only their health but also their relationship with their bodies.

Families like that of Dilawar Qureshi, who closely saw his grandmother fight breast cancer, carry scars unseen. As he spoke about the profound emotional toll it took on his family. The most difficult part, he explained, was learning that her breasts would need to be removed. “It’s something many patients struggle with, especially when they face insensitive questions about the treatment process.”

“Knowing the end is near but not exactly when – that constant fear is harrowing,” he further reflected.

Echoing Dilawar’s sentiments, Rida mentioned, “Another thing is that your relationship with your body changes,” adding. “You have to thank your body for everything it has done for you and let go of the expectations of what it should do. It brings some solace.”

Fighting the stigma against breast cancer in Pakistan:

The struggle with breast cancer need not remain solitary or stigmatized as awareness on the topic in Pakistan can be redefined. Removing shame from the conversation would open doors for more women to seek support without fear for which professional counseling and therapy can help shift mindsets laden with taboo, while prioritizing accessible care like free exams and self-assessment guides, that would not only promote early detection but also save countless lives.

Finally, creating an environment where families and communities feel safe to share their experiences with breast cancer, relieving an emotional toll often heavier than the disease itself. Each story of survival is a testament to the strength and empathy born from the hardest battles. With greater efforts to counter the fear and taboos around breast cancer, the Pakistani community can unite in awareness, acceptance, and action, transforming it from an unspoken tragedy into a vocal, supportive journey.