Karachi – October 8, 2024 – Bank Alfalah, a leading commercial bank in Pakistan, has partnered with Cancer Foundation Hospital, a leading non-profit healthcare institution, to provide life-saving treatment to women battling breast cancer. As part of this collaboration, Bank Alfalah and Roche Pakistan have contributed a total of PKR 10.75 million towards medication expenses and free-of-cost treatment for five breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive comprehensive treatment.
Cancer Foundation Hospital is dedicated to offering affordable, comprehensive cancer care to all, irrespective of financial circumstances. With its state-of-the-art 100-bed facility, the hospital provides essential cancer services, including diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Their commitment goes beyond treatment, offering emotional and psychological support to patients making a significant impact in the battle against cancer in Pakistan.
As breast cancer continues to be a significant public health concern, Pakistan has one of Asia’s highest breast cancer rates, with over 10 million women at risk. Each year, there are approximately 90,000 new cases reported and 40,000 deaths due to the disease. Despite this alarming incidence, only 25–30% of women are aware of the importance of early detection through self-examinations or mammography. This highlights the critical need for awareness and education, which Bank Alfalah aims to address through this campaign.
Mehreen Ahmed, Group Head of Retail Banking, said, "At Bank Alfalah, we believe in going beyond business operations to address critical societal issues. Breast cancer is a major health challenge, and through our partnership with Cancer Foundation Hospital, we aim to provide tangible support to women battling cancer. Our commitment extends to ensuring that financial constraints never become a barrier to receiving life-saving treatment."
Hafa Shamsie, GM of Roche Pakistan said, “For over 125 years, Roche, as one of the world’s leading biotech companies, has been finding innovative solutions for some of the most complex healthcare issues faced by our populations. At the same time, we have always believed that our innovative treatments are meaningful only if they reach those who need them the most. And that is why, through our Patient Support Program and our Partnerships with organisations such as Bank Alfalah and Cancer Foundation Hospital, we have brought free-of-cost breast cancer treatment to thousands of women across Pakistan. ”
To combat this challenge, Bank Alfalah has launched a series of Pinktober awareness sessions across major cities to educate women about early detection and prevention in collaboration with Shaukat Khanum, Chughtai Lab, and the Samina Alvi Foundation. The first session, featuring medical professionals and representatives from the Samina Alvi Foundation, was scheduled at Bank Alfalah's head office in Karachi on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
In a show of solidarity, Bank Alfalah’s Head Office has been illuminated in pink in October to raise awareness for the cause.
Bank Alfalah has always maintained a strong commitment to sustainable corporate social responsibility, particularly in healthcare. This partnership with Cancer Foundation Hospital and the ongoing awareness campaign are part of the bank’s broader effort to contribute to the well-being of communities across Pakistan.