Veteran actor Atiqa Odho has urged women to prioritise their health and encouraged families to support their loved ones in seeking timely medical care, using her social media platform to highlight the importance of breast cancer awareness and early detection.
Sharing a pink-themed awareness poster featuring three women on Instagram, Odho emphasised the importance of self-care, regular health checks and making breast health a part of everyday conversations.
The poster carried the message, "Look after those who matter, by looking out for Breast Cancer," highlighting the role that awareness and support can play in encouraging women to seek medical advice.
In her caption, the actor wrote, "A little awareness today can make a lifetime of difference." "Breast cancer is a reminder that caring for the women we love means encouraging them to care for themselves, too," she added.
Odho stressed the importance of early detection, noting that "regular self-examinations, timely medical consultations, and recommended screenings are important steps towards protecting our health."
She also urged her followers to break the silence surrounding breast cancer and encouraged women to seek medical advice without fear or embarrassment.
"Let's break the silence, spread awareness, and remind every woman that her health matters," she wrote, encouraging women to prioritise their own health as well as that of their loved ones.
Her message comes as Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws attention to the importance of recognising potential symptoms, understanding screening options and seeking medical advice when concerns arise. The annual campaign also provides an opportunity to address the stigma and silence that can prevent women from discussing their health or accessing care.
While being familiar with changes in one's breasts can help women recognise potential warning signs, self-examination does not replace recommended screening or professional medical assessment. Women should consult a qualified healthcare professional if they notice a new lump, changes in breast shape or size, skin dimpling, nipple changes or unusual discharge. Screening recommendations vary according to age, family history and individual risk.
Beyond the medical aspects, Odho's post highlights the role families and communities can play in normalising conversations about breast health. Encouragement from a mother, sister, daughter or friend can help women feel more comfortable discussing concerns and seeking medical attention.
In another Instagram post, the actor highlighted the burden of breast cancer in Pakistan, drawing attention to the need for greater awareness and early detection.
The post also cited a survival rate of 98% with early screening. However, survival rates vary according to the stage at diagnosis, the type of cancer and other individual factors, and the figure should not be interpreted as a universal guarantee.
Concluding her latest message on a note of care and solidarity, Odho wrote, "With love and care, let's make awareness a habit, not just a moment."
Her appeal serves as a reminder that breast cancer awareness should extend beyond a designated month. Encouraging open conversations, seeking timely medical advice and following appropriate screening recommendations can help women make informed decisions about their health.
Odho is one of Pakistan's best-known television and film actors, with a career spanning more than three decades. She made her television debut in Anwar Maqsood's Sitara Aur Mehrunissa in 1992 and went on to establish herself through dramas including Dasht, Nijaat and Angaar Wadi.
