Early detection key to breast cancer treatment

Early detection is critical to successful breast cancer treatment, but fear, stigma and uncertainty about where to seek medical care continue to discourage some women from screening. Speaking during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Aga Khan Hospital Oncology Department Programme Administrator Saidi Shukuru said treatment outcomes were generally better when the disease was detected early. His remarks followed a free breast cancer screening campaign organised by Aga Khan Hospital in partnership with Howden Puri Insurance Brokers, at the hospital’s Cancer Care Centre. Mr Shukuru said the initiative aimed to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage people to seek timely medical attention. “We want people to understand the importance of screening and avoid neglecting their health because of fear, stigma or uncertainty about where to seek medical care,” he said.