Oncology Department at Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital provides free treatment to 800 breast cancer patients annually

DAMASCUS, (ST)- The Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital in Damascus provides diagnostic services and free treatment to some 800 women with breast cancer annually, according to Dr. Sa’d Hamweyeh, Director of the Hospital. These services are rendered through the hospital’s Oncology Department which was established in 2016.

Every year during October, which is the International Breast Cancer Awareness Month “Pink October”, the Oncology Department intensifies its awareness activities on the importance of conducting regular detection to diagnose the tumor and to ensure effective treatment and higher cure rate, said Dr. Hamweyeh. He pointed out that the medical staff of the department also focuses on psychological support besides the diagnostic and treatment services, due to its effectiveness in improving the health condition of patients.

 Hamweyeh added that an average of 800 women with breast cancer receive various types of treatment, including the chemical, biological and hormonal treatment at the department annually. He affirmed the importance of regular detection of breast cancer at least once a year after the age of 40, even in the absence of any symptoms. He went on to say that it is recommended to undergo the tests at a younger age if some close family members have developed this type of cancer.

Hamweyeh pointed out that the diagnosis of breast cancer, like other types of cancer, is made through the general surgery clinic and through detections conducted via mammogram, echocardiogram and axial stratification.

He indicated that about 5 to 7 women complaining from breast lumps visit the general surgery clinic every day. These women are provided with necessary tests and treatment according to each case.

Hamda Mustafa