Dr. Tarbia Hamid, General and Breast Surgeon

Dr. Tarbia Hamid, a competent General and Breast Surgeon at NWGH is an expert in advanced breast surgery, employing modern-day, oncoplastic breast surgery techniques like v-mammoplasty, wise pattern reduction mammoplasty, and more. Access cutting-edge care for breast health and reconstruction at Northwest General Hospital.

For details and consultations, contact (091) 111 583 880.

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern in Pakistan, affecting a large number of women and posing numerous challenges to the healthcare system. With limited resources and awareness, the country faces significant obstacles in combating this disease effectively. This article aims to shed light on the prevalence, risk factors, challenges, and initiatives related to breast cancer in Pakistan.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Pakistan. According to the latest available data, approximately 30,000 new cases of breast cancer are reported annually in the country. However, due to limited screening and underreporting, the actual number of cases is believed to be much higher.

Several risk factors contribute to the high incidence of breast cancer in Pakistan. Late age at first childbirth, multiple pregnancies, lack of breastfeeding, and early menarche are some reproductive factors associated with an increased risk. Moreover, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, obesity, and a family history of breast cancer also play a role in the development of the disease. Additionally, cultural barriers often hinder open discussions about breast health, preventing women from seeking timely medical attention.

Challenges in addressing breast cancer in Pakistan are multifaceted. Limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, makes it difficult for women to access proper diagnostic and treatment facilities. Additionally, the scarcity of skilled healthcare professionals specializing in breast cancer further compounds the problem. The lack of awareness and education about the disease among both women and healthcare providers contributes to delayed diagnoses and poorer treatment outcomes.

Efforts are being made to address these challenges and improve breast cancer care in Pakistan. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government bodies are working together to raise awareness about breast health, encouraging women to seek regular check-ups and promoting early detection. Several campaigns and initiatives have been launched to educate women about self-examination techniques and the importance of mammograms. Mobile mammography units have also been introduced in remote areas to facilitate early detection.

Collaboration with international organizations and research institutions has proven valuable in improving breast cancer care. Training programs are being conducted to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and radiologists, in diagnosing and managing breast cancer effectively. These partnerships have also enabled the provision of medical equipment, including mammography machines and biopsy tools, to improve diagnostic capabilities.

Furthermore, the government of Pakistan is taking steps to integrate breast cancer services into the existing healthcare system. Specialized breast cancer clinics are being established in major cities, offering comprehensive care, including diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Access to affordable and quality breast cancer treatment is being prioritized through the provision of financial support and health insurance schemes.

In conclusion, breast cancer remains a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, with high incidence rates and limited resources. The country is making progress in addressing this issue through increased awareness, improved access to diagnostic services, and specialized treatment centers. However, sustained efforts, collaboration between various stakeholders, and continued investment in healthcare infrastructure are necessary to further reduce the burden of breast cancer in Pakistan.

A breast lump should be seen by a breast surgeon for several important reasons:

Expertise in breast health: Breast surgeons are specialists who have extensive training and expertise in evaluating breast conditions, including breast lumps. They have in-depth knowledge of breast anatomy, breast diseases, and the various diagnostic and treatment options available for breast-related concerns.

Accurate diagnosis: Breast surgeons are skilled in performing clinical breast examinations and have a keen eye for detecting abnormalities. They can assess the characteristics of a breast lump, such as its size, location, texture, and mobility, which helps determine the likelihood of it being benign or malignant.

Differential diagnosis: Breast surgeons can differentiate between different types of breast lumps. While many breast lumps are benign, some may be indicative of breast cancer or other serious conditions. A breast surgeon can evaluate the lump in the context of the patient's medical history, physical examination findings, and potentially order further tests or imaging studies to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.

Guiding appropriate management: If a breast lump is found to be suspicious or concerning, a breast surgeon can guide the appropriate management plan. They can discuss the available options for further evaluation, such as imaging studies (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) or biopsies, and recommend the most suitable course of action based on the individual's specific situation.

Surgical expertise: In cases where a breast lump requires surgical intervention, such as for a biopsy or removal, a breast surgeon is trained in performing these procedures. They have the necessary surgical skills and experience to ensure the best possible outcomes while minimizing potential risks and complications.

Coordinated care: Breast surgeons often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals involved in breast cancer management. They can collaborate with the team to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care, considering the patient's unique needs and treatment options.

It's important to note that not all breast lumps are cancerous, and many are benign or non-cancerous. However, it is still crucial to have any breast lump evaluated by a healthcare professional, preferably a breast surgeon, to determine the appropriate course of action and ensure timely and accurate diagnosis and management.

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Tarbia Hamid (MBBS, FCPS) as Junior Consultant, General and Breast Surgery to Northwest General Hospital.

Dr. Tarbia has graduated from Khyber Medical College and has completed her postgraduate training, initially, from Khyber Teaching Hospital and later, continued from the Memon Medical Institute's Residency Programme in General Surgery, Karachi. Thereafter, she joined Aga Khan University, Karachi as a Research Associate at the department of surgery. During her time in Karachi, she gained valuable experience in the breast surgery section at Aga Khan University. She has recently, moved back to Peshawar and is keen to offer her services in an area where female access to healthcare is otherwise limited due to cultural limitations.

Dr. Tarbia has also authored research publications focused on breast surgery and continues to be an active participant in research projects.

We welcome Dr. Tarbia Hamid on board and wish her a successful association with Northwest General Hospital.