IBA Karachi and Himmel Pharma Join Hands to Champion Breast Cancer Awareness

October 10, 2024: Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi in collaboration with Himmel Pharmaceuticals (Pvt.) Ltd organized a Breast Cancer Awareness Program at the Main Campus. IBA is celebrating ‘PINKtober’ to mark the global Breast Cancer Awareness month. The session was well-attended by the staff, faculty, and students.

Disseminating information on breast cancer, the session emphasized the need for early detection, prevention strategies, and the importance of regular screenings and mammograms. With 1 in 8 women suffering from breast cancer in Pakistan, there is a critical lack of awareness about the disease.

Head of Oncology Department, Liaquat National Hospital, Dr. Naila A. Zahid, expressed concern over the high incidence of breast cancer in Pakistan and gave a detailed presentation on breast cancer, its risk factors, common symptoms, early detection, and the impact of this disease on mental health.

Dr. Zahid underscored the prevalence of breast cancer, noting, “For every hundred women with breast cancer, there is one man.” She emphasized the importance of understanding both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, stressing the need for gender-inclusive awareness and support.

The discussion covered genetic factors in breast cancer, focusing on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Dr. Zahid noted that these genes increase breast cancer risk by over 50%, giving a 60-80% chance of developing the disease for those who carry them.

Emphasizing how a healthy lifestyle can reduce breast cancer risk, she urged the audience to adopt a healthy lifestyle and diet, to protect our bodies. Dr. Zahid also recommended yearly mammograms for women above forty and regular physical examinations for women under forty.

She further addressed common biopsy myths and urged timely action upon detecting abnormalities. She also emphasized overcoming fear around breast cancer, highlighting that it is not a death sentence and that patients can lead healthy lives post-treatment.

The program concluded with an informative Q&A session.

Director Human Resources IBA, Mr. Irfan Qamar presented mementos to Dr. Zahid and Himmel Pharma representatives.