chatter matter
Public conversations around women’s health often remain limited, despite the scale of the issues involved. Breast cancer, in particular, continues to be discussed cautiously, even though early screening can significantly improve outcomes. Creating spaces where women can speak openly, ask questions and access medical services remains a critical need.
Against this backdrop, Ladiesfund, in collaboration with Chughtai Healthcare, held a women-only breast cancer awareness talk and mammogram screening session titled ‘Breast Cancer Heart-to-Heart’ recently at the Chughtai Lab Auditorium in Karachi. The session focused on awareness, shared experiences and the importance of early detection. Nearly 200 women attended the three-hour session, which aimed to provide a comfortable and private setting for discussion. The initiative was organised under ‘Umeed’ by Ladiesfund, its breast cancer awareness and support platform, with support from Dawood Global Foundation.
The programme included interactive discussions and talks by Orda Arif, Amna Ilyas, healthcare expert Dr Rahila Usman and breast cancer survivors. Speakers spoke about personal journeys, medical realities and the need for women to prioritise their health.
Senior women professionals from organisations such as PSO, PRL, National Refinery, Euronet, Faysal Bank and Allied Bank also attended.
A key component of the session was on-site mammogram screening. Attendees were able to undergo mammograms during the event and return to the auditorium to speak about their experience, addressing common fears and encouraging others to consider screening.
Speaking at the event, Tara Uzra Dawood said, “We are infusing agency and women empowerment into the cause, motivating and inspiring women to choose early detections, self-love, care for their bodies and lives and get a mammogram.”
Orda Arif noted, “The presence of breast cancer survivors alongside so many women added depth to the discussion. Women often discover health concerns at a very late stage and such initiatives help encourage earlier action.”
Breast cancer survivor Sima Kamil said, “Being part of ‘Breast Cancer Heart-to-Heart’ was empowering. Watching women undergo mammograms and speak openly about their experience was moving. Events like this encourage early detection and self-care.”
Attendee Shayma Saiyid shared, “The session was well-organised and the speakers were impactful, especially the reminder for women to stop putting their health second.”
Through awareness sessions and screening initiatives, we can continue to engage women on preventive healthcare and early detection in collaboration with healthcare providers and partner organisations.
- You! desk
