Breast Cancer Awareness, Diagnosis, and Free Treatment by Patients’ Aid at JPMC

Breast cancer is a battle almost all of us have witnessed through the struggles of our loved ones and those around us. Imagine the fight of the underprivileged women who face this challenge with no awareness or access to critical care. Patients’ Aid Foundation is committed to making a difference by providing FREE, life-saving treatments to breast cancer patients at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) including diagnostics, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation.

This October, play your role in creating awareness by sharing our message with your friends & family. You can also sponsor a breast cancer patient for essential screenings, treatments including chemotherapy and radiation.

Sponsor 1: Breast Cancer Patient’s Chemotherapies by donating Rs. 375,000/-

Sponsor 1: Chemotherapy of a Breast Cancer Patient Rs. 75,000/-

Donate today! www.patientsaidjpmc.org 

In Pakistan, breast cancer accounts for nearly 40% of all female cancers, highlighting the urgent need for accurate information and accessible care. This October let us learn and impart the essential information every woman needs to take charge of her health.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in breast tissue grow uncontrollably, forming tumours, and it is much more common in women. In Pakistan, countless lives are affected by breast cancer each year. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer face delays or inadequate treatment due to financial barriers and the stigma surrounding breast cancer . These challenges not only affect the patients themselves but also have a profound impact on their families and communities. 

Recognizing the urgent need for support, Patients’ Aid is striving to provide free Cancer treatment to underprivileged women visiting Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) along with creating awareness. With a dedicated team and advanced treatment facilities, the organisation is committed to delivering accessible care while empowering women through educational sessions.

Common myths about Breast Cancer

In Pakistan, limited awareness and misconceptions about breast cancer contribute to dangerous delays in diagnosis and treatment. It’s essential to address these common myths, particularly within our society.

Myth: Breast cancer is a disease of old age.
Fact: Breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger women in Pakistan. According to research from the National Library of Medicine 2021,  nearly 50% of breast cancer patients are between the ages of 25 and 50.

Myth: Breast cancer always causes pain.
Fact: The majority of breast cancers present as painless lumps. In fact, according to medscape article 2024, only 5% patients feel pain as a presenting symptom. Many women in Pakistan may overlook a lump, believing that it must be painful to warrant concern. This misconception can delay vital medical attention. 

Myth: You can only get breast cancer if it runs in your family.
Fact: While family history can influence breast cancer risk, only 5-10% of cases are attributed to genetic factors. Many women in Pakistan, including those without a family history, are often surprised that they are still at risk.

Myth: Mammograms are only necessary for older women.

Fact: In reality, regular mammograms are crucial for women starting at age 40, or even earlier if they have risk factors such as a family history of breast cancer. Early detection through screening greatly improves treatment outcomes, leading to higher survival rates and better quality of life. It’s important to prioritise these screenings, as they play a vital role in effectively combating breast cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

• Symptoms can include changes in the size or shape of the breast, lumps, or unusual discharge from the nipple. Regular self-exams can help in early detection.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of breast cancer?

• While some risk factors are beyond control, good eating habits, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk.

Q: What should I do if I find a lump?

• If you notice any unusual changes, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treatment options and survival chances.

Q: Is breast cancer treatment available in Pakistan?

• Yes, several hospitals in Pakistan including JPMC, Karachi offer comprehensive breast cancer awareness and treatment options, including diagnosis, surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Notably, the Patients’ Aid Foundation, operating within JPMC, plays a crucial role in providing these essential services at JPMC.

Join the Fight against Breast Cancer with Patients’ Aid

To support this mission, Patients’ Aid equips JPMC with essential resources for breast cancer care, including state-of-the-art mammography equipment for early detection, ultrasound machines, and biopsy supplies. If you want to make a difference expanding these resources, directly transforming the lives of patients in the community, click here to contribute.

Every October, Patients’ Aid celebrates Pinktober at JPMC to raise awareness about breast cancer including educational sessions for female employees in the corporate sector. These sessions tend to provide crucial information on prevention, early detection, and treatment options, empowering communities to take charge of their health.

Through these comprehensive combined efforts, Patients’ Aid strengthens JPMC’s capacity to provide effective breast cancer care and improve patient outcomes. The goal is to cultivate a supportive environment where everyone, especially those with limited health information, feels empowered to prioritise their health. 

Through humanitarian initiatives like “Karachi kay Dost  Jinnah kay Sath“- a daily sadqa program, and Bike a Cause, Patients’ Aid is relentlessly working towards creating awareness about healthcare issue of the underprivileged communities, raising funds and empowering individuals with essential knowledge and support.

If you want to support breast cancer patients, consider playing your part through Sadaqah/Zakat and donations to Patients’ Aid Foundation.. By doing so you can help Patients’ aid continue to provide life-saving treatment ensuring that no man, woman or child has to face disease without the care he/ she deserves. Patients’ Aid strongly believes that quality healthcare is everyone’s right. 

For more information on breast cancer awareness and to support initiatives that provide critical healthcare services please visit the Patients’ Aid website. 

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