Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI) Stresses Early Detection of Breast Cancer

The Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI), an Atomic Energy Cancer Hospital under the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), hosted a breast cancer awareness seminar on Saturday. The event, themed "Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters," aimed to underscore the significance of early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive cancer care.

Attendees included medical professionals, cancer survivors, and other participants who gathered to raise breast cancer awareness and encourage timely medical consultations.

Begum Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, a prominent figure in attendance, paid tribute to the dedicated doctors and healthcare professionals working at PAEC's 21 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals. She shared a personal story about her close friend who battled stage IV cancer six years ago and is now leading a healthy life after receiving treatment at NORI. Dr. Anwar commended the hospital's commitment to improving the lives of patients and their families.

Dr. Shabana Saeed, Director General of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology (NM&O) at NORI, urged the audience to break the silence surrounding breast cancer and start open conversations about the disease. She emphasized that it was time to take action and shared the importance of encouraging women in their families and communities to seek early detection and timely treatment.

Dr. Humera Mahmood, Director of AECH-NORI, highlighted the growing burden of breast cancer in Pakistan and stressed that early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial. She informed the attendees that PAEC's network of 21 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals provides diagnostic and treatment facilities to a significant portion of cancer patients nationwide. NORI has seen a remarkable increase in new patient registrations, with approximately 11,000 new cases in 2025 compared to around 3,000 in 2007.

The seminar featured presentations and expert discussions on various aspects of breast cancer, including awareness, early diagnosis, timed treatment, compassionate care, informed decision-making, and healthy lifestyles. An awareness walk, poster competition, and an interactive audience quiz were also held to engage the participants further.

Throughout the event, it was emphasized that breast cancer is treatable, particularly when detected early, and that NORI's advanced treatment facilities, including three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), MR-guided hybrid brachytherapy, and CyberKnife technology, support these efforts.