KARACHI (Lord Media): The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has expressed grave concern over the delay in breast cancer treatment in the country following a report by the World Health Organization. The PMA highlighted that a 111-day delay in treatment significantly increases the risk of cancer spreading, with nearly four months elapsing from diagnosis to treatment commencement.
According to the association, the system for timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in Pakistan has failed. In developed countries, the survival rate for this cancer exceeds 85%, whereas in Pakistan, it is less than 30%.
The PMA further stated that there are minimal screening facilities at primary health centers, and due to low awareness and social barriers, patients reach hospitals late. The high cost of treatment and poverty are major obstacles to accessing timely medical care.
The association has urged the government to establish free breast cancer screening centers in tehsil and district hospitals, provide radiotherapy machines and chemotherapy drugs in public hospitals immediately, and prioritize the improvement of breast cancer screening and treatment.
