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About APPNAHAYAT
In the last two to three decades, Asia has experienced
a rise in annual incidence rates of Breast Cancer,
as compared to Europe and North America.
The incidence of Breast Cancer in the world is 12% ,ie one in 8 , some experts have put the estimates much higher for Pakistan. A report from American Society of Human Genetics (2002) estimates the the age-standardized rate (ASR) of breast cancer in Karachi, Pakistan, is 51.7 per 100,000 per year and is the highest ASR reported for any Asian population, excluding Israel.1
Paucity of data from the entire country makes it difficult to give a correct estimate of ASR for Pakistan, but viewing the above data , one can draw the inference that Pakistan has one of the highest rates of breast cancer in the world
These statistics, with particular reference to Pakistan,
are quite concerning. Breast Cancer, if detected
early, is considered curable. In fact, screening
mammograms , together with monthly breast self exams,
done regularly, can even prevent the disease.
It is with this thought in mind, that a group of
physicians, under the aegis of APPNA, decided to
start a Campaign to increase awareness of Breast
Cancer among the South Asian women, with particular
focus on Pakistani women. The group, comprises of
physicians, belonging to multiple specialities,
and some of whom have battled Breast cancer courageously,
and serve as an inspiration to all of us.
Our Mission at APPNAHAYAT
is to promote and increase awareness of breast cancer
among women of South Asian descent. By promoting
awareness, we are optimistic, that not only women
will get timely diagnosis and intervention, but
we can also reduce the incidence of late stage breast
cancer and associated mortality rates among the
South Asian population.
We, at APPNAHAYAT, have brochures printed in Urdu,
and also will have brochures in different provincial
languages of Pakistan. These brochures are for most
part uploaded on this website in the PDF format,
and can be used to educate and empower women. Awareness
of a disease, is the first step towards its prevention.
By promoting awareness for Breast Cancer, and the
fact that it can be prevented, we are optimistic
that we will be able to acheive our goal - reduce
risk of breast cancer in South East Asia
1 (Parkin et al. 1997; Bhurgri et al. 2000). |
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