University Medical & Dental College organized the 4th Annual Breast Cancer Symposium, under the theme “Young Onset Breast Cancer: Bridging Biology, Prevention & Integrative Survivorship.” The symposium brought together leading oncologists, breast surgeons, healthcare professionals, and emerging researchers to discuss advances in breast cancer prevention, treatment, multidisciplinary care, and survivorship, with a particular focus on younger women.
The symposium commenced with a welcome address by Prof Dr Saira Saleem, Head of Breast Surgery, Madinah Teaching Hospital (MTH). She highlighted the importance of addressing the distinct clinical challenges associated with breast cancer in younger women and strengthening collaboration among healthcare professionals.
The inaugural session featured expert presentations by Dr Muhammad Tahir Bashir, Head of Oncology, Faisalabad Medical University (FMU), who discussed the prevalence, biological characteristics, and preventive strategies associated with young-onset breast cancer. Prof Dr Ahmad Uzair Qureshi from Mayo Hospital, Lahore, addressed surgical approaches and their impact on overall survival, while Prof Dr Abdul Majeed Chaudhary, Dean LMDC, shared insights into breast cancer among young women. Ms Sana, Nursing Superintendent at MTH, emphasized survivorship as an essential yet often overlooked aspect of breast cancer management.
Prof Dr Asghar Naqi, Vice Chancellor, Faisalabad Medical University, graced the symposium as Chief Guest. Prof Dr Muhammad Akram Malik, Principal UMDC, delivered concluding remarks and presented commemorative shields to the distinguished guests and speakers.
A key highlight of the symposium was the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Session, chaired by Dr Huma Majeed Khan, Chairperson of the Pakistan Society of Breast Surgeons and Head of Breast Surgery at Ittefaq Hospital, Lahore. Ms Vivienne Blackhall, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon from Scotland, discussed the importance of integrated care and multidisciplinary team meetings in managing young-onset breast cancer. The session also featured clinical case discussions covering early-stage, advanced-stage, and recurrent breast cancer, encouraging evidence-based treatment planning and collaborative decision-making.
The Emerging Researchers Session, chaired by Dr Komal Atta, Director, Medical Education, UMDC, provided a platform for young medical professionals to engage in academic discussion and research. Dr Samina Ashfaq, Dr Fasiha Ali, and Dr Tahira Yousef, Fellows in Breast Surgery at MTH, participated as presenters, highlighting the importance of research engagement and professional development in specialized healthcare.
The symposium concluded with remarks and a vote of thanks by Prof Dr Shirza Nadeem, Vice Principal, UMDC, followed by shield distribution to the student cabinet of MBCS in recognition of their contributions.
The 4th Annual Breast Cancer Symposium reflected UMDC and TUF's continued efforts to advance medical education, encourage clinical research, and promote multidisciplinary approaches to breast cancer care. Through expert dialogue, clinical case discussions, and research engagement, the event highlighted the importance of early detection, individualized treatment, and long-term survivorship in improving outcomes for younger breast cancer patients.