October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

 October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Illnesses are a part of life, but there are some diseases that are sometimes life-threatening. One such deadly disease is breast cancer, which is a common disease among women in both developed and developing countries. However, due to lack of awareness and precautions, the number of women suffering from this epidemic is increasing in low and middle income countries. Lack of awareness about early detection of the disease in most women with breast cancer and inadequate facilities or lack of health services lead to late diagnosis.

International situation

16% of women worldwide are suffering from breast cancer. Every year this disease affects about 2 million women, out of which about 15% of women die due to this deadly disease. Medical experts say that one out of every 9 women worldwide is at risk of breast cancer. Every woman has a 12% risk of breast cancer during the average lifespan.

Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer among Asian women in terms of population. There is a risk of breast cancer in more than one crore women of the country. In general, this disease is less common in women who breastfeed their children up to 2 years of age. If proper public health programs are organized, the increase in breast cancer can be reduced.