Medical experts have stressed the importance of early detection and screening as the most effective way of combating cancer.
Speaking at the ‘Think Pink’ event organised by Pakistan Women’s Association (PWA) to mark the Breast Cancer Awareness Month recently, Dr Shaheen Manzur, a gynaecologist from Dukhan Medical Centre, advised women to undergo frequent screenings besides conducting self-examination.
“Early detection is the best way to combat cancer. It is like nipping the evil in the bud. And the best method of early detection is regular self-examination and screening,” said Dr Manzur. She told the audience that the survival rate in breast cancer, for instance, is considerably high if caught early on.
However, she stressed, there is need for large scale awareness campaign to make women aware of the self-examination and screening procedures.
Advocating the “Each One-Teach One” approach, Dr Manzur urged women to spread the word and educate other women on breast cancer and the importance of screening.
She advised women to consult their doctors without delay if they notice any of the symptoms of breast cancer or a lump.
Appreciating the role of the Government of Qatar in combating cancer, Dr Manzur lauded the efforts and steps taken by the Ministry of Public Health and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) towards creating awareness about cancer and then treating the patients.
“I would advise all women above 45 years of age to avail the facility of regular annual breast screening at Women’s Hospital,” said the doctor. Dr Manzur also gave an overview of the self-examination procedure with slides.
Dr Shahnaz Kader, a dental surgeon from India, told the audience that breast cancer was like any other disease that can be best treated if detected early.
She also highlighted the importance of oral hygiene, terming it key to preventing a score of diseases including cancer. Poor oral hygiene is associated with many chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, she said.
“A number of researches and reports indicated that poor oral hygiene can cause breast, prostatic and oral cancers. Our mouth indeed is a window to our health,” the doctor explained.
She also urged the attendees of the event to carry out their own personal research when they hear anything about diseases from people who are not qualified to make such observations. Often, these observations are misconceptions that are spread without any truth to them.
“A lot of times people will tell you that the use of microwave oven or grilled meat causes cancer. Or you would find such misinformation on the Internet. Internet can be both useful and harmful. We must scientifically verify all such information before believing it to be true,” said Dr Kader.
Dr Mehwish Qureshi from Hamad Medical Corporation moderated the seminar. It was sponsored by Punjab Restaurant and Al Masa Dental Complex. “I am grateful to the sponsors for their contribution in the fight against breast cancer, a disease which is becoming a medical threat for the women residents of Qatar,” said Rahat Mansoor, the President of PWA.
She said that PWA has always been active in social activities and would continue to play its role in social development in future as well.
PWA is a fraternity for Pakistani women residing in Qatar. It claims to be a constructive group recognised for voluntary, community welfare activities in Qatar. The group is open to women who become an active part of its regular cultural activities.
They gather monthly at a coffee morning get-together, which takes place on the first Saturday of every month. The purpose of the group is to create an open and inviting environment where women can build friendships, engage with the community, and experience all that Qatar has to offer.