State University of Bangladesh (SUB) organised a seminar titled “Microplastics & Women’s Health and Early Identification of Breast Cancer” at OGSB Hospital in Mirpur-13, Dhaka, focusing on the growing health risks posed by microplastics and the importance of early breast cancer detection.
The seminar was arranged by the Institute of Skill Development and Continuing Education (ISDCE) of SUB in collaboration with the Health and Nutrition Organization (HNO) and OGSB Hospital, reads a press release.
Renowned physicians from leading institutions across the country, along with students from various universities, attended the programme.
Farhana Dewan, chairperson, delivered the welcome address. Md Mahmudur Rahman, director of ISDCE, presented the keynote, highlighting scientific evidence on the harmful impacts of microplastics, particularly on children and women of reproductive age.
He stressed the need for greater awareness and stricter control over plastic use. In another presentation, Rezwana Sharmin, assistant professor at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College, emphasized the importance of early detection of breast cancer.
She explained the necessity of self-breast examination and urged women to be more proactive about their health.
The panel discussion featured Syed Md Akram Hossain, head of the Oncology Department at Bangladesh Medical University; Iqbal Kabir, climate and environmental health specialist and coordinator at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; and Abu Jamil Faisal, senior public health specialist and chairman of HNO.
During the discussion, Iqbal underscored the importance of evidence-based policies and the need for robust research through postgraduate programmes such as MPH, MD and FCPS.
Akram said regular self-breast examination can significantly reduce both the risk and treatment costs of breast cancer. Jamil highlighted the need for joint programmes focused on research and advocacy.
The discussion also covered women’s health risks, long-term effects of microplastics, policy measures for plastic control and potential hazards of nanoparticles. The session was chaired and moderated by Farhana Dewan.
Nowzia Yasmin, dean of the School of Health at SUB, attended as special guest and spoke on the need to reduce plastic use and future collaboration with OGSB.
The event was moderated by Thaniyatul Jannath Samira, lecturer at SUB. The seminar concluded with closing remarks by Farhana.
