Nearly 7,000 women die and about 13,000 are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Bangladesh, according to health experts.
The information was disclosed by Professor Dr Md Habibullah Talukder Raskin, founder and chief coordinator of the Bangladesh Breast Cancer Awareness Forum, at a roundtable discussion held on Friday at the Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah Auditorium of the National Press Club in Dhaka.
The discussion was organised to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Day. A colourful rally was also brought out from the Press Club, parading through Paltan intersection before returning to the club premises.
He said, “Due to a lack of awareness and regular screening, breast cancer is often detected at a late stage, resulting in a high death rate.
“Screening facilities are available in about 500 government hospitals across the country,” he added, urging women not to let shame stand in the way of saving lives.
Forum President Syed Humayun Kabir noted that breast cancer is no longer a death sentence thanks to modern treatment facilities. He said, “Our mothers and sisters often hesitate to speak up due to social stigma. But it’s important to remember- this is a disease, not a disgrace.”
Health Reform Commission member Syed Md Akram Hossain emphasised the importance of early vigilance to prevent breast cancer. He added that the commission has recommended bringing cancer patients under health insurance coverage and reducing the cost of essential medicines.
Every year, 10 October is observed globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This year’s theme is: “Know More, Rise Up-Screening Saves Lives.”
