An Insight into Breast Cancer-Related Reproductive Tract Malignancies: Clinical and Genetic Assessment

Held on October 28, 2024, at the Professional Development Centre, DIMC, this CME program was organized by the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dow University Hospital (DUHS). The event focused on the genetic links between breast cancer and reproductive tract malignancies.

The program was chaired by Prof. Dr. Jahan Ara Hassan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences and Medical Superintendent of Dow Hospital. It featured distinguished speakers, including:

• Ms. Fizza Akber, a genetic counselor with a Master’s in Genomic Medicine from the University of Manchester and associated with Aga Khan University, discussed the role of genetics in cancers, specifically those affecting the breast, reproductive tract, and gastrointestinal system.

• Dr. Uzma Chishti, a Gynecological Oncologist and Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, delivered an engaging session on the role of risk-reducing surgery for ovarian cancer.

• Dr. Maryum Nouman, a Medical Oncologist from DUHS, presented on the role of Tamoxifen in breast cancer treatment.

• Dr. Shazia Jabbar, Associate Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at DUHS, spoke about the effects of Tamoxifen on endometrial abnormalities.

Following the individual presentations, the program included an interactive and insightful panel discussion featuring experts in the field:

• Prof. Shehla Baqai, Principal and Dean at Bahria University of Health Sciences and senior faculty member at the College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan

• Prof. Jahan Ara Hassan, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Medical Superintendent of DUHS, also affiliated with the College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan’s Obs/Gynae faculty

• Prof. Riffat Jaleel, Chairperson of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at DUHS

• Prof. Haleema Yasmin, Chairperson Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Jinnah Sindh Medical University

• Dr. Omema Salim, Breast Surgeon at Dow Hospital, DUHS

• Speakers Ms. Fizza Akber and Dr. Uzma Chishti, and Dr. Syeda Batool, Medical Oncologist at Dow Hospital

The program was moderated by Dr. Saima Aziz, Associate Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at DUHS, and attended by gynecologists from various institutions as well as postgraduate trainees from the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, who enthusiastically participated in the sessions.

This CME program aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

• SDG 4: Quality Education

• SDG 5: Gender Equality