PESHAWAR: Health experts at a seminar here on Thursday called upon women to undergo mammograms and related tests to detect breast cancer at early stage in which the cure rate was nearly 100 per cent. The seminar was organised by Institute of Public Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Khyber Medical University, in collaboration with Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (Irnum). The theme of the seminar was ‘we are stronger when we stand together whether as survivors, supporters, or advocates for change.’ Dr Zainab Jan and Dr Asad Zamir from Irnum presented global statistics on breast cancer, emphasising that early detection was life saving. Covering symptoms, detection challenges and barriers faced in low and middle-income countries like Pakistan, they highlighted the urgent need to address those issues to improve health outcomes. The speakers discussed risk factors such as lifestyle habits, obesity and family history and encouraged women to adopt protective practices including regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and breastfeeding. They also discussed the significance of annual screenings such as mammograms and clinical breast examination as essential tools for early detection of the ailment. A particular focus was placed on debunking myths and misconceptions around breast cancer, equipping the participants of seminar with reliable information for informed health choices. Treatment options like chemotherapy and surgery were also discussed, with a reminder that survival rates were highest when cancer was diagnosed at an early stage. Dr Huma Atta of Institute of Public Mental Health discussed the link between mental health and cancer recovery. She highlighted the role of emotional support, socio-educational resources and self-examination practices in supporting both physical and psychological recovery for breast cancer patients. The seminar’s mission extended beyond awareness, aiming to dismantle stigma, encourage early detection and improve survival rates. As the event concluded, a collective commitment resonated among participants and organisers alike to advocate for breast cancer awareness and support every individual affected by the disease because “together, we are stronger.”