Muhith stresses early detection of breast cancer

The government has decided to establish a National Molecular Biology Laboratory in Bangladesh to develop cancer treatment facilities in every divisional city and promote modern medical science, including cancer biology, said Health State Minister Dr M A Muhith.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Bangladesh Breast Cancer Conference 2026 (BBC26) at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Friday afternoon. The conference was organised by the Bangladesh Society for Breast Cancer Study (BSBCS).

In his speech, the health state minister placed the highest priority on early detection of breast cancer.

“Every year, many women in Bangladesh die of breast cancer. Studies show that most patients seek medical attention when the cancer has already reached an advanced stage. The later the disease is detected, the higher the risk of complications and its spread to other parts of the body,” he said.

“Cancer is no longer necessarily a fatal disease. Particularly in the case of breast cancer, if it is detected at a very early stage and treated properly, the mortality rate is very low and patients can live healthy lives for many years,” he added.

Emphasising the need for regular screening programmes for women in specific age groups, Dr Muhith said, “We need to create widespread public awareness for early detection of breast cancer and introduce specific screening programmes for women of certain age groups. Proper screening can detect the risk or signs of the disease at a very early stage.”

Speaking about the government’s plans to introduce modern medical technology and develop skilled manpower, the state minister said, “The use of molecular biology techniques in cancer treatment is bringing major changes worldwide. To improve the healthcare system of the future, the government has decided to establish a National Molecular Biology Laboratory at the national level, and work on the initiative has already begun.”

He said the government was also procuring modern equipment for cancer institute’s and working to develop new cancer specialists and skilled personnel through training programmes at home and abroad.