Breast Cancer: A Hush-Hush Taboo in 2023
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women worldwide, yet in Pakistan, it remains a taboo topic that many women are reluctant to discuss or seek help for.
Despite having one of the highest rates of cancer cases in the world, breast cancer remains a shrouded issue in Pakistani society.
Women in Pakistan are often reluctant to talk about the issue, even with their close family and friends, for fear of judgment and stigma. This reluctance to discuss the disease not only leads to delayed diagnoses but also perpetuates the cycle of shame and ignorance surrounding the disease.
One of the most significant barriers to tackling the breast cancer epidemic in Pakistan is the cultural stigma attached to the disease. Many women in the country view cancer as a private matter that should not be discussed with anyone outside of the immediate family.
This stigma is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the country and is perpetuated by the taboo surrounding female sexuality. Women are often reluctant to seek medical attention or undergo medical screenings, leading to delayed diagnoses and poor outcomes.
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women worldwide, yet in Pakistan, it remains a taboo topic that many women are reluctant to discuss or seek help for.
Salon Ladies: Angles in Disguise
In Pakistan, women are often more comfortable speaking with their salon ladies about personal issues than with their doctors or family members.
Salon ladies are trusted members of the community and play a vital role in the lives of many women. They are often the first point of contact for women seeking information or advice on a range of health issues, including cancer.
The salon lady is often seen as a non-threatening figure who can provide women with the privacy and confidentiality they need to discuss sensitive issues.
For many women, the salon is a safe haven where they can talk openly about their concerns and seek advice without fear of judgment or stigma.
This is particularly important in the context of breast cancer, where women may feel uncomfortable discussing their symptoms or concerns with male doctors or family members.
This is where Indus Hospital decided to use this insight to share cancer awareness amongst the masses while respecting their safe space.
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Breast Cancer: Indus Hospital x GharPar
Indus Hospital partnered with Pakistan’s first home-based salon service app ‘GharPar’. When a customer books a session, the service lady will visit their home, provide their service, and will also give an awareness session on breast cancer.
Despite the important role played by salon ladies in supporting women with cancer awareness, there is a need for more comprehensive awareness and education campaigns to help tackle the taboo surrounding the disease in Pakistan.
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Health organizations, governments, and community groups need to work together to create a culture of openness and acceptance surrounding the disease. This includes providing women with accurate information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for cancer, as well as access to high-quality medical care.
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