Early detection of cancer is a cornerstone in improving treatment outcomes and saving millions of lives. Radiology, with its array of advanced imaging techniques, plays a pivotal role in identifying minute tumors and abnormalities at the earliest stages—before symptoms appear or tumors become palpable.
“Early detection of cancer is critical, as it allows for a wider range of treatment options, increases the chances of successful treatment, and often involves less aggressive therapies,” said Prof. Dr. Mahesh Kumar, Consultant Radiologist at Indus Radiology Center, during a public health awareness seminar titled ‘Early Diagnosis of Cancers Saves Life’.
“CT scans are highly detailed X-rays that provide cross-sectional images of the body. They are particularly useful in detecting lung cancers, abdominal cancers, and cancers of the head and neck. The detailed images help doctors spot even the smallest abnormalities that might indicate the presence of cancer. MRIs use powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and tissues inside the body. This modality is crucial for detecting cancers in the brain, spinal cord, and other soft tissues. MRIs can show the exact location of a tumor, its size, and whether it has affected nearby tissues or blood vessels,” Dr. Mahesh explained.
He further added, “Lung cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, largely because it is often detected too late and remains asymptomatic in its early stages. Lung cancer screenings using low-dose CT scans are recommended for high-risk individuals, such as long-term smokers. PET scans, often combined with CT or MRI, help in assessing how cancer is spreading and whether it has reached other parts of the body.”
Addressing misconceptions about brain tumors, Dr. Muhammad Nasir Ali, Consultant Neurosurgeon at South City Hospital, Karachi, and former Head of Neurosurgery at the Ministry of Health, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia, and Fujairah General Hospital, UAE, said: “Brain tumor is one of the most terrifying terms. There are many myths among the general population, with many believing that every brain tumor will either be fatal or result in coma with multiple complications. However, a large majority of brain tumors can be treated successfully, and most patients resume their normal daily life. There has been an increase in brain tumor incidence in Pakistan, making it the tenth leading cause of morbidity in our country. About 28,000 new cases are reported annually, of which 20% are children, while 24,000 patients lose their lives every year due to this disease. Although the exact causes of brain tumors are not fully known, there is an increased risk in certain rare genetic syndromes and exposure to radiation.”
Dr. Nasir Ali elaborated on tumor types and symptoms: “Brain tumors are categorized as primary and secondary. Primary brain tumors originate in the brain, and most are benign. Secondary brain tumors are metastatic and occur when cancer cells from other organs, such as lungs or breasts, spread to the brain. Symptoms vary by size, location, and growth rate, often including new or worsening headaches (especially in the morning), unexplained nausea and vomiting, seizures, personality changes, and balance issues. Other signs include blurred vision, weakness, numbness on one side, fatigue, and confusion. Symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should visit a doctor, preferably a neurosurgeon, as early as possible.”
He added: “Diagnosis begins with a physical exam and review of medical history, followed by further tests including MRI and CT scans. With recent advancements in neurosurgery, minimally invasive procedures for brain tumor treatment are emerging as highly effective. Endoscopic brain tumor surgery allows neurosurgeons to locate and treat conditions deep within the brain or accessible through the nose.”
Prof. Fareya Usmani, Consultant Breast & General Surgeon at OMI Hospital, Karachi, emphasized the role of mammography: “Mammography is a specialized form of radiology using low-dose X-rays to examine breast tissue. It is the most effective tool for early detection of breast cancer, often identifying tumors too small to be felt during a physical examination. Mammography and breast ultrasound are complementary; mammograms act as the primary screening tool, while ultrasound is often a follow-up test to better characterize solid versus cystic lesions. Using both together provides a definitive diagnosis.”
Adeel Ahmed, Head of Radiology and Laboratory Services at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, highlighted global cancer trends: “As of 2025, cancer remains a leading cause of global mortality, with an estimated 10 million deaths annually. Approximately 70% of these deaths are caused by cancers that lack recommended screening. Most cancer types, including pancreatic, ovarian, and brain cancers, do not have routine early detection options. Only 4–5 cancer types have standard, recommended screening protocols, despite there being over 100 types of cancer.”
He stressed the importance of public awareness and technological investment. “Educating the public on early warning signs and symptoms of cancer encourages prompt medical consultation. Investing in diagnostic technologies reduces the time from symptom awareness to diagnosis. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, which detect multiple cancer types from a single blood draw, will be a game-changer in rural areas. Introducing AI for better analysis of images and screening tests, especially CT scans and mammography, is crucial, as breast cancer in Pakistan has one of the highest mortality rates in Asia.”
