October is lit up with pink energy, and we call it PINKtober for a reason. The feminism flag hoists while the month ferries power and energy to all the women who fight breast cancer every year.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and in Pakistan, one of every nine women dies of it. Every year women slump in seats in an oncology ward or tremble while in the mammography center.
With the extensive research on it, it is concluded that the grim story can only be changed by early diagnosis and reducing the death rate. So what halts the early diagnosis? The taboos, like always. The fight for cancer is a regime in itself but what makes it worse are the taboos that tag along, which create a wedge between a woman and her survival.
It is not surprising that you are not supposed to pronounce this cancer name type in a Pakistani taboo world because halal police are patrolling even when it is life and death.
So what are these taboos?
You cannot say the word ‘Breast’
A support group, a volunteer lecturer, or a commercial cannot say the word ‘breast’ while referring to this type of cancer—the stigma triumphs considering the word breast as a four-letter word. The word is replaced and called the ‘cancer of woman.’ You see eyes popping and ears stunned when you say a word from the no vocabulary segregated list.
The examination shyness
There is certain shyness about going through a timely checkup of breasts, which has caused so many women to be ignorant. The disease is known for its muted growth, and a delayed test gets you in danger and lowers the survival rate. Steer clear of the stigma and get yourself tested, girls!
Family history isn’t always a risk factor
Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer is not part of the genes. Studies prove that only 5% of cancer cases are related to heredity. I say that, again, get tested regularly.
It is not always deadly
Being diagnosed with breast cancer doesn’t mean you are going to die. Medical improvements have improved. The survival rate for the cancer is roughly 60-80%, which is very high for any cancer.
Let us fight these taboos and wear that pink ribbon like we own it. Let no shame the PINKtober!
