An overview of breast cancer in Pakistan

In a multitude of developed and emerging countries, including Pakistan, breast cancer contributes to significant morbidity and mortality. This increase may be due to limitations in existing available treatment options and/or delayed diagnosis, as well as the role of diet and lifestyle. Further exacerbating the situation is lack of routine screening modalities and a lack of awareness amongst the general public. Barriers to breast health practices and breast self-examination may include social prejudice and misconceptions about screening standards, family history, and feelings of vulnerability. Herein, we provide an overview on breast cancer in Pakistan, and highlight risk factors, as well as deliberate on medical facilities and treatments. Furthermore, ongoing clinical trials related to breast cancer and other factors such as vitamin D deficiencies, tumour suppressor genes, gut microbial diversity, etc. are discussed. There is a clear and urgent need to establish screening programs in small cities to raise awareness and manage cancer patients at an early stage, that will lead to better outcome for the patients, however intensive work is needed to realize these expectations.