Imran Ali Ghouri
Breast cancer, lurking in the shadows, is a silent killer that often strikes when least expected. In Pakistan, its prevalence has reached alarming levels as around 30 thousand women are affected by breast cancer in 2020 with about 14 thousand losing their lives according to the World Health Organization, leaving many families shattered. One in every 9 women in Pakistan are at risk of this fatal disease. The dire consequences of breast cancer cannot be underestimated as it imposes a significant burden on our society and economy. Breast cancer doesnot discriminate; it affects women from all walks of life, irrespective of social, economic, and geographical boundaries. The impact of this disease goes beyond the individual suffering; it ripples through families and communities, leading to financial strain and emotional turmoil. However, in the face of this grim reality, the Sehat Sahulat Program (SSP) has emerged as a glimmer of hope. The SSP has brought about a remarkable transformation in the Pakistani healthcare system, making quality healthcare accessible to those who need it the most. This program has been a lifeline for the deserving, providing them with a ray of hope amidst the darkness of illness. It has made healthcare a fundamental right, not a privilege, and has paved the way for countless individuals to seek the treatment they need.One of the most significant achievements of the SSP is its role in encouraging women from all segments of society to prioritize breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. By eliminating the financial barriers that once prevented them from reaching out to private hospitals, this program has empowered women to take control of their health. Early detection is the key to survival in breast cancer cases, and the SSP in collaboration with many private hospitals has played a crucial role in ensuring that more women are diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. Furthermore, the Sehat Sahulat Program’s extended reach to private sector hospitals is allowing them to serve a wider population with high-quality healthcare facilities. Hospitals like Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital and Islamabad Dental Hospital have adopted this program in full letter and spirit, embracing patients from all socio-economic backgrounds without any discrimination. With the establishment of one-stop breast clinic to provide consultation, screening, diagnosis, advice and treatment facilities under one roof, theyare not only providingworld class medical care but they are alsobecoming champion in raising awareness about the importance of early detection. Their efforts have undoubtedly saved precious human lives alongside lowering the burden of disease via health education which leads to prevention. However, our journey towards a healthier Pakistan is far from over. To ensure that we continue the fight against breast cancer and other life-threatening diseases, the SSP must continue. It is imperative that we recognize the importance of extending the program to include breast cancer screening for everyone, in all regions of Pakistan. By doing so, we can further reduce the burden of this devastating disease and ensure that no woman is left behind in the pursuit for her health. In conclusion, the Sehat Sahulat Program has transformed the Pakistani healthcare sector by empowering women, encouraging early detection, and supporting excellence in healthcare institutions, especially in the private sector. However, our work is not done. Let us advocate for the inclusion of breast cancer screening under the SSP for all, and let us remember that we can lower the burden of this disease and pave the way for a healthier, more prosperous Pakistan. With continued commitment and collaboration, we can look forward to a future where breast cancer is no longer a silent killer, but a defeated enemy.
