Lahore, Pakistan – Every year, around 90,000 women in Pakistan are diagnosed with breast cancer, and many face serious challenges due to late-stage detection. In an effort to raise awareness and encourage early detection, WorkPod, a coworking space initiative by Acrosoft, recently organised a special event dedicated to this crucial cause.  

The event was honored to host two distinguished speakers: Dr. Misbah Masood, a highly respected Radiation Oncologist with over 35 years of experience in oncology and former Head of the Oncology Department at Inmol Cancer Hospital, and Moneeza Hashmi, a renowned media figure and activist with over 40 years of influence in the industry.  

Dr. Misbah’s extensive medical expertise, combined with Moneeza Hashmi’s powerful advocacy for women’s health, made them the perfect voices to emphasize the critical need for breast cancer awareness and early detection.  

The event commenced with a pink ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the collective commitment to combat breast cancer. Attendees then participated in a painting activity and received pink scarves to demonstrate their support for women battling this disease.  

Inspiring Speakers and Key Messages

Both guest speakers took the stage to share important messages about breast cancer awareness. They provided valuable insights and personal stories, highlighting the need for early detection and community support. Their enthusiasm inspired everyone in the room, encouraging attendees to take proactive steps in their lives and support others in the fight against breast cancer.  

“Breast cancer is not a death sentence; it is a treatable disease,” said Dr. Misbah Masood.  

Breast cancer can also affect men, often presenting more aggressively in them, stated Dr. Misbah.  

Dr. Misbah stressed the importance of self-examinations and regular screenings for all individuals, urging attendees to prioritize their health. Dr. Misbah talked in detail about the key symptoms of breast cancer, like finding lumps, changes in the skin, and unusual discharge. She also explained the treatment options available in Pakistan, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.  

Her presentation was meant to give the community helpful knowledge, encouraging everyone to take active steps to care for their health.  

“Raising awareness and taking early action are crucial for improving survival rates,” Dr. Misbah Masood further emphasized, underscoring the need to educate the public about early signs and available treatments to avoid preventable delays in diagnosis.  

“Breast cancer is not just a personal struggle; it is a societal challenge. By coming together, we can provide the support and information needed to encourage early detection and treatment.” said Moneeza Hashmi,  

Moneeza Hashmi has played a significant role in advocating for breast cancer awareness, including hosting the groundbreaking program Khawateen Time. She shared personal stories about the importance of community support, including one about her associate’s courageous battle against breast cancer.  

Engaging the Audience: Q&A Session

The event included an interactive Q&A session, where attendees asked questions about breast cancer risks, genetic factors, and the common misconception that only women can get the disease. Dr. Misbah used this opportunity to highlight an important but often overlooked fact: men can also get breast cancer. Although it’s more common in women, men are at risk too. Dr. Misbah explained that breast cancer in men can be more aggressive because it is usually detected later. She emphasized that men should pay attention to warning signs like lumps or changes in the chest area and take action quickly if they notice anything unusual. Regular check-ups and early detection are just as crucial for men as they are for women, improving the chances of successful treatment.  

Unity in Action: A Collective Commitment

As the event came to an end, attendees gathered for a group photo to symbolize their shared commitment to fighting breast cancer. This moment captured the spirit of unity and support among everyone present. Souvenirs were given to the guests as tokens of appreciation for their participation and dedication to raising awareness about this important cause.  

“Together, we can combat breast cancer and support those affected by it,” said Dr. Adnan Zahir, CEO of WorkPod, reflecting on the importance of community initiatives like this one.  

The event inspired everyone and made them feel excited to share what they learned with their communities. They wanted to help spread awareness about breast cancer and encourage their friends and family to take care of their health and get checked early. This made them feel like they could work together to fight against breast cancer.  

WorkPod’s mission goes beyond just providing a coworking space; it aims to create a strong sense of community and teamwork in the fight against breast cancer. By bringing people together, WorkPod encourages everyone to support one another and work towards a healthier future for all.