Omer Aftab Stresses Need For Early Detection, Digital Advocacy In Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 18th Oct, 2025) On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Omer Aftab, CEO of Pink Ribbon Pakistan Saturday emphasized the critical importance of early detection in combating breast cancer and called upon social media platforms to play an active role in spreading awareness, encouraging users to share information and motivate their followers to prioritize breast health.

While speaking with a local news channel, he noted that while progress has been made, more concerted efforts are needed to reach communities still affected by stigma, misinformation and lack of access to healthcare Centre.

He called for collaboration between government and non-governmental organizations to launch more comprehensive public health campaigns, adding, with utilizing various media channels, these campaigns can effectively disseminate information about breast cancer, its symptoms and the critical importance of early detection.

Omar Aftab further explained the significant cultural barriers that impede early breast cancer detection in Pakistan, adding, in many rural and urban households, discussions about women’ s health, particularly breast health, remain a taboo.

This societal reticence leads to a lack of awareness and reluctance among women to seek medical attention at the first signs of abnormality, he mentioned.

Aftab noted that such cultural norms often result in delayed diagnoses, making treatment more challenging and less effective, adding, for open conversations and educational initiatives to break these taboos and encourage proactive health measures among women.

He suggested that offering low-cost screening services and organizing continuous awareness camps can significantly contribute to early detection and better treatment outcomes, adding, these resources available, women are more likely to seek timely medical attention, leading to improved survival rates and overall health outcomes.

CEO also highlighted key breast cancer symptoms: the formation of a lump in the breast that differs from surrounding tissue, nipple discharge (especially bloody), sudden changes in breast size or shape, skin alterations like dimpling, appearance of an extra or inverted nipple, and flaking or peeling of the areola.

He emphasized the importance of early detection and encouraged individuals to consult healthcare professionals if they notice any of these signs.