Women Empowerment in Oncology Discussed at ONCO 2026 Conference
Pakistan Society of Clinical Oncology Launches “Women for Oncology” Initiative
A meaningful discussion on women empowerment in oncology was held during ONCO 2026, organized by the Pakistan Society of Clinical Oncology (PSCO), where leading oncologists highlighted the challenges, achievements, and growing role of women in cancer care, research, and medical leadership.
The session was opened by Dr. Hira Yousuf Khan, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom, who shared her reflections on the realities faced by women oncologists in Pakistan and abroad.
She stated that despite differences in healthcare systems worldwide, women in oncology continue to face similar professional and personal challenges, including balancing clinical responsibilities, research, leadership roles, family life, maternity responsibilities, childcare, and workplace gender bias.
Dr. Hira Yousuf Khan emphasized that the ONCO 2026 session created an important platform where such issues could finally be discussed openly and honestly.
During the conference, the Pakistan Society of Clinical Oncology officially launched the “Women for Oncology” initiative, aimed at supporting women in oncology through mentorship, networking, leadership opportunities, and professional development.
The session included scientific presentations and a documentary highlighting the contributions of women in oncology, from frontline cancer care and patient advocacy to academic research and medical education. Distinguished professionals were also honored with service awards for their contributions to oncology in Pakistan.
The initiative was launched under the leadership of Dr. Azhar Rashid, President of the Pakistan Society of Clinical Oncology, whose efforts to promote dialogue on gender equity in oncology were appreciated by participants.
Dr. Hira Yousuf Khan stated that empowerment should not remain limited to conferences and discussions, but must translate into practical support for young doctors, especially women entering the field of oncology.
She highlighted that many young female doctors face major challenges during pregnancy, early motherhood, and childcare responsibilities while completing demanding medical training. She stressed the need for supportive and flexible professional environments so talented women are not forced to choose between career and family life.
Speaking about the importance of mentorship, she said senior professionals have a shared responsibility to guide junior colleagues, support research opportunities, and encourage women to take leadership roles in healthcare.
She also emphasized the importance of women supporting other women within the profession, stating that mentorship, collaboration, and mutual respect are essential for long-term progress and sustainable change.
One emotional moment from the conference came when a junior trainee approached Dr. Hira Yousuf Khan after the session and said, “You have voiced what many of us could not say.” She described this interaction as a reminder of why open conversations about workplace realities matter.
The conference also featured participation from prominent oncology professionals including Dr. Feroz Khan Achakzai, Consultant Radiation and Medical Oncologist at PAEC CENAR Cancer Hospital Quetta; Professor Ahmad Nadeem Abbasi, Consultant Radiation Oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi; and Dr. Waqas Ishtiaq Ali, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
Participants agreed that the launch of the “Women for Oncology” initiative represents an encouraging step toward a more inclusive and supportive future for women working in cancer care and medical leadership.
