Oncologists and gynecologists organized a special seminar in Sulaymaniyah Northern Province to support breast cancer patients. According to statistics, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and has a direct impact on fertility.
The seminar, held on Sunday, June 29, addressed many important issues and guidelines related to this disease, especially explaining its obvious causes and providing support to women.
Shano Mahmoud, an oncologist, stated, "We are here to support breast cancer patients, provide guidance, and identify the causes of the disease, as breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, including the Kurdistan Region."
According to the Kurdistan Regional Government KRG's Ministry of Health MOH, breast cancer accounts for 23% of all cancer cases.
The high incidence of breast cancer is not limited to the Kurdistan Region but is, as Shano Mahmoud explained, the most common in Iraq and the world.
For instance, in 2023, out of 35,000 cancer cases in Iraq, 57% were women, and 20% of them were breast cancer cases.
"The environment and genetics are among the most common causes of breast cancer. An unhealthy environment and lifestyle, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise are the most common factors," Shano added.
"There are many other factors that increase the risk of breast cancer in women. For example, if girls start their menstrual cycle before the age of 12, or menopause after the age of 50, they are more susceptible to breast cancer."
In general, women are advised to maintain a healthy weight, eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and pay attention to the environment, climate, and lifestyle.
