Department of Biomedical Sciences Raises Awareness on Breast Cancer Through Statistical Analysis

As part of the ongoing activities for Pink October and the continuous awareness programs on breast cancer, the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Cihan University–Erbil organized a workshop entitled “Understanding Breast Cancer Through Statistics” on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the VIP Hall, Cihan University–Erbil.

The workshop was presented by Dr. Chinar Ali Sinjawe, a general surgeon and the Head of the Cancer Control Department at the Ministry of Health of the Kurdistan Region. The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Ayad Hazim, Vice President of Cihan University–Erbil, several heads of departments, academic staff, and students from various departments, as well as Mr. Waleed Haydar, CEO of Ashti Health Organization, and Ms. Karben Karkhi Omar, Co-founder of Ashti Health Organization.

During her presentation, Dr. Chinar highlighted statistical data on breast cancer both globally and in Iraq. She noted that, according to 2024 data released by the Iraqi Ministry of Health, 9,043 cases of breast cancer were recorded, representing 19.5% of the total 46,682 registered cancer cases, making it the most common type of cancer in the country.

Dr. Chinar further discussed several contributing factors to the increasing incidence of breast cancer in Iraq, including late presentation, limited access to screening and mammography services, and shortages in trained healthcare personnel. She emphasized the critical role of self-examination in early detection, noting that early-diagnosed cases have a 99% chance of full recovery.

At the conclusion of the workshop, Dr. Chinar expressed her appreciation to the Department of Biomedical Sciences and the attendees. On behalf of the department, Prof. Dr. Merza Hamza Homady presented a certificate of appreciation and an honorary shield to Dr. Chinar in recognition of her valuable contribution to the awareness program.