High Cancer Treatment Costs Remain Major Challenge for Patients in Pakistan
High treatment costs, expensive medicines and delayed diagnosis continue to create significant challenges for cancer patients in Pakistan, health experts have warned. Specialists say financial difficulties can prevent patients from accessing timely medical care or completing their prescribed treatment.
The concerns were highlighted at BreastCon 2026, a two-day conference organised by Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) in Karachi. Experts attending the event discussed the growing burden of breast cancer and the need to make modern treatment facilities more accessible to patients.
According to figures shared at the conference, Pakistan recorded an estimated 43,721 new breast cancer cases and 20,039 deaths from the disease in 2024. Experts also noted that women account for 44 per cent of all reported cancer cases, highlighting the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and access to appropriate healthcare.
Professor Dr Tariq Mahmood, head of CyberKnife and TomoTherapy services, said efforts had been made to engage pharmaceutical companies to explore ways of reducing medicine prices and easing the financial burden on patients.
He also discussed a new breast radiotherapy facility being established at JPMC. The facility is expected to provide free treatment to up to 160 patients daily, potentially improving access to specialised radiotherapy services for people who cannot afford expensive medical care.
Dr Khalid Sher and Dr Syeda Zareen Raza stressed the importance of ensuring that deserving patients could benefit from modern medical facilities and appropriate treatment. They highlighted the need for improved access to healthcare services, particularly for people facing financial difficulties.
Breast surgeon Dr Rufina Soomro urged women to seek timely medical examinations, explaining that early detection can help doctors identify the disease and determine suitable treatment options.
Breast cancer awareness was also the focus of a seminar organised by the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) Karachi at the DHA Creek Club. The event highlighted the importance of self-examination, recognising possible warning signs and seeking medical advice when necessary.
Surgeon Dr Nida Wahid encouraged women to make regular breast self-examination part of their health awareness routine. Cancer survivor Erum Farooq also shared her personal experience, urging women to remain vigilant about their health and seek medical attention when they notice concerning changes.
Dr Zareen Gohar, chief medical officer at DHA Medical Centre, emphasised the importance of continuing public awareness campaigns to encourage early detection and promote better health practices.
