Scientific Seminar on "Advancements in Breast Cancer" at Damascus University

Syrian Family Planning Association organized a scientific seminar titled "Advancements in Breast Cancer", in collaboration with Damascus University and University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Damascus, with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Syria, marking the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The seminar was accompanied by a dialogue session on the current reality of breast cancer, featuring Dr. Eyad Al-Shatti, Dr. Arwa Al-Azma, Dr. Salah Sheikha, Dr. Abdelghani Al-Shalabi, and Dr. Maha Manachi.

Professor Dr. Muhammad Osama Al-Jabban, President of Damascus University, emphasized the importance of the scientific efforts undertaken by the university in collaboration with the hospitals of the Ministry of Higher Education to enhance medical awareness and shed light on the scientific developments in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Dr. Al-Jabban highlighted the efforts made by the Female Academic Empowerment Unit at Damascus University, under the diligent supervision of Vice President of the University and the Head of the Unit, Dr. Maysaa Al-Sioufi.

Deputy Representative of (UNFPA) in Syria, Mr. Bushta Marabit, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Syrian Family Planning Association, the Ministry of Higher Education, University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Damascus, and Damascus University, stressing the importance of these partnerships in promoting awareness and early detection of breast cancer.

Marabit added that the UNFPA supports improving healthcare services for women and girls by providing medical equipment and family planning methods to help reduce unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.

Professor Dr. Salah Al-Sheikha, Director of the University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Damascus, stressed that these joint efforts play a crucial role in enhancing awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and cervical cancer, contributing to improving community health overall.

Dr. Hazar Miqdad, President of the Syrian Family Planning Association, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in organizing the event, considering it a societal necessity amidst difficult circumstances.

Dr. Arwa Al-Azma, Head of the National Cancer Control Committee, highlighted the importance of awareness and early cancer detection, emphasizing the need for cooperation between health and community sectors. She pointed out the importance of providing accurate information about breast cancer and early detection methods, as these efforts play a fundamental role in improving recovery rates and increasing awareness of the risks associated with the disease.

Dr. Mohammad Qadri, Director of Al-Biruni University Hospital, stated that the scientific seminar on breast cancer is considered one of the important seminars, especially since breast cancer is one of the most common tumors among women and can be easily detected, thereby facilitating quick recovery.

Dr. Qadri also added that Biruni Hospital includes a specialized department for breast cancer treatment, encompassing all types of therapies and surgeries, especially with the availability of modern radiology equipment in the hospital.

During his lecture on "Quadrantectomy," Dr. Hamoud Hamed discussed conservative surgical procedures in the breast, highlighting cases where breast conservation is possible and others that require complete breast removal.

Dr. Maha ManaChi, President of the Syrian Association of Oncology and Medical Director of Biruni University Hospital, stated that the seminar is one of the most important human messages directed to both men and women. She explained that awareness programs usually focus on early detection, but the seminar adds an extra dimension by elucidating the guidelines and standards adopted by doctors to ensure that women receive the highest chances of survival and recovery.