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Monday 18:00 - 19:00 Wednesday 18:00 - 19:00 Friday 18:00 - 19:00

Dr. Aneeqa Qureshi, BNI/Bashir NeuroSpine Institute 18 Shadman, Jail Road, Lahore (2026)

21/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
Addressing Emotional Well-being During Cancer Treatment 🎀

🔹 Understanding Emotional Health
1-Cancer affects more than the body — it deeply impacts the mind and emotions.
2-Anxiety, fear, sadness, and uncertainty are common, but they are normal reactions to a life-changing diagnosis.
3-Caring for your emotional well-being is as important as medical treatment itself.

🔹 Common Emotional ChallengesFear of treatment or side effects.Worry about family, work, or the future.Changes in body image after surgery or hair loss.Fatigue and mood swings during therapy.Recognizing these emotions early helps in building resilience and self-compassion.

🔹 Ways to Support Your Emotional HealthTalk openly with your doctor, nurse, or counselor about how you feel.Join cancer support groups — sharing with others reduces loneliness.Keep a daily journal to express your thoughts and track progress.Practice relaxation techniques — deep breathing, prayer, or meditation.Stay connected with family and friends — let them help you.

🔹 Coping Strategies During TreatmentSet small daily goals to feel in control.Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t.Take breaks when tired and rest without guilt.Enjoy activities you love — music, reading, or nature walks.Eat well, stay hydrated, and sleep adequately to boost mental health.

🔹 Role of Professional HelpSeek help from a psychologist, psychiatrist, or oncology counselor if sadness or anxiety persist.Therapy and medications, when needed, can greatly improve mood and coping.Emotional care is part of cancer care — not separate from it.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Healing from cancer is not only physical — it’s emotional and spiritual too.
Allow yourself to feel, seek support, and share your journey.
With love, counseling, and self-care, you can find strength, peace, and hope even in the hardest days.
🎀

19/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
How to Prepare for Radiotherapy 🎀
🔹 Understanding Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells that may remain after surgery or chemotherapy.
It’s a crucial step in breast cancer treatment — improving survival and reducing recurrence.
Preparation is key to ensure safety, accuracy, and comfort during the sessions.

🔹 Before Starting TreatmentYou’ll meet your radiation oncologist for a detailed discussion.CT simulation is done to plan the exact area and angle of radiation.Skin markings or small tattoos are placed to guide treatment each day.Doctors will explain side effects and provide a skin care plan.

🔹 Preparing Your BodyEat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein to boost recovery.Stay hydrated — at least 8–10 glasses of water daily.Get adequate sleep and light physical activity for better energy.Avoid smoking or alcohol during the treatment period.

🔹 Skin Care Before RadiotherapyKeep the area clean and dry.Do not apply lotions, perfumes, or deodorants unless approved by your doctor.Wear loose cotton clothing to prevent irritation.Protect skin from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

🔹 Emotional and Mental PreparationFeeling nervous is normal — talk openly with your care team.Learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.Join support groups to connect with others undergoing radiotherapy.Take a family member or friend for emotional support during the first sessions.

🔹 What to Bring on Your First DayYour medical reports and treatment schedule.Comfortable clothes and a bottle of water.A calm mindset — sessions are painless and quick (10–20 minutes).

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Radiotherapy is safe, precise, and highly effective when you prepare well.
By taking care of your body, skin, and mind, you make the process smoother and more successful.
Each session brings you one step closer to recovery, confidence, and renewed health.
🎀

18/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
The Role of Herceptin in Breast Cancer Treatment 🎀
🔹 What is Herceptin?
Herceptin (Trastuzumab) is a targeted therapy used to treat a specific type of breast cancer known as HER2-positive breast cancer.
HER2 is a protein that promotes cancer cell growth — when overproduced, it causes aggressive tumor behavior.
Herceptin works by blocking this protein, helping to stop or slow cancer growth.

🔹 How It WorksHerceptin attaches to the HER2 receptors on cancer cells.This blocks signals that make cells grow and divide.It also helps the immune system recognize and destroy these cancer cells.As a result, tumors shrink, recurrence risk decreases, and survival improves.

🔹 When Is It Used?For early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer after surgery and chemotherapy.In metastatic breast cancer, to control disease and improve quality of life.Often given with chemotherapy initially, then continued alone for maintenance.

🔹 How It Is GivenAdministered through an IV infusion or subcutaneous injection.Usually given every 3 weeks, for a total duration of 1 year in early-stage disease.Treatment is monitored closely through heart and blood function tests.

🔹 Benefits of HerceptinSignificantly reduces recurrence in HER2-positive breast cancer.Improves overall survival and long-term outcomes.Less toxic to normal cells compared to chemotherapy.Helps convert aggressive cancers into manageable conditions.

🔹 Possible Side EffectsFatigue, mild fever, or flu-like symptoms.Rarely, heart-related effects — monitored by echocardiograms during therapy.Temporary infusion reactions that are easily managed.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Herceptin has transformed the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, turning a once-aggressive disease into a treatable and controllable condition.
When used under expert supervision, it offers women hope, strength, and long-term survival — a true milestone in modern cancer care.
🎀

17/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
What is Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS)? 🎀
🔹 Understanding BCS
Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS), also called Lumpectomy or Wide Local Excision, is a surgical procedure that removes the cancerous lump while preserving most of the breast.
It is a safe and effective treatment for many women with early-stage breast cancer.
The goal is to achieve complete cancer removal without removing the entire breast.

🔹 How It WorksThe surgeon removes the tumor and a small rim of surrounding healthy tissue (called a “clear margin”).This ensures no cancer cells are left behind.The rest of the breast remains intact, maintaining its shape and appearance.

🔹 Who Is a Candidate for BCS?Women with early-stage or small tumors (usually less than 4 cm).Tumors located in one area of the breast.Patients willing to undergo radiotherapy after surgery.Those who value breast preservation and good cosmetic results.

🔹 Benefits of BCS
1-Preserves natural breast shape and body image.
2-Shorter recovery time compared to mastectomy.
3-Equal survival rate as mastectomy when combined with radiation.
4-Offers emotional and psychological comfort to many women.

🔹 What to Expect After BCSRadiotherapy is given after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.Mild swelling or discomfort may occur, managed easily with medication.Normal activity usually resumes within a few days.Follow-up includes wound check, exercises, and regular mammograms.

🔹 When BCS May Not Be SuitableLarge tumors compared to breast size.Multiple cancer areas in one breast.Prior radiation to the same breast.Medical conditions preventing radiotherapy.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Breast Conservation Surgery allows women to fight cancer while preserving their confidence and identity.
It proves that cancer treatment can be effective, safe, and compassionate — combining cure with care.
With modern surgical techniques, women can heal not just physically, but emotionally too.
🎀

16/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
What to Expect After Breast Surgery 🎀
🔹 Understanding Recovery
Breast surgery — whether lumpectomy, mastectomy, or reconstruction — is a major step in the cancer treatment journey.
Knowing what to expect helps reduce fear, manage discomfort, and ensure a smooth recovery process.

🔹 Immediately After SurgeryYou’ll wake up in the recovery room with your medical team monitoring vital signs.Mild pain, heaviness, or tightness in the chest and underarm area is common.A surgical drain may be placed to remove excess fluid — usually removed after a few days.Most patients can begin gentle arm movements within 24 hours.

🔹 Hospital Stay and DischargeHospital stay varies from 1 to 3 days, depending on the surgery type.Pain and swelling are well managed with medications.Before discharge, your doctor will explain wound care, drain care, and activity limits.

🔹 At Home: First Few Weeks
1-Expect some stiffness or pulling around the surgical site — it improves with light stretching.
2-Keep the incision area clean and dry, and wear soft, non-tight clothing.
3-Sleep with your upper body slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
4-Avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous exercise until cleared by your doctor.

🔹 Emotional RecoveryIt’s normal to feel emotional changes — relief, anxiety, or sadness — after surgery.Support from loved ones or a breast cancer support group can help.Body image adjustments take time; remember, healing is both physical and emotional.

🔹 Follow-Up and Next StepsStitches and drains are usually removed in 7–10 days.Follow-up visits monitor healing and discuss further treatments (chemo, radiation, or hormonal therapy).Report any redness, fever, or unusual swelling immediately to your doctor.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Recovery after breast surgery is a journey of healing, patience, and self-care.
With proper guidance, good nutrition, gentle movement, and emotional support — you’ll regain strength and confidence day by day.
Each step brings you closer to recovery, resilience, and renewed hope.
🎀

15/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
Understanding the Stages of Breast Cancer 🎀
🔹 Why Staging Matters
Breast cancer “staging” helps doctors understand how far cancer has spread and plan the most effective treatment.
Each stage reflects the size of the tumor, involvement of lymph nodes, and whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

🔹 Stage 0 – In Situ CancerCancer cells are still inside the ducts or lobules and haven’t spread to nearby tissues.Known as DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ).Completely curable with surgery and sometimes radiotherapy.

🔹 Stage I – Early-Stage CancerTumor size is small (≤2 cm) and may or may not involve one nearby lymph node.Usually managed with surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy) plus radiotherapy.Excellent survival rates with timely treatment.

🔹 Stage II – Locally Advanced Early CancerTumor is 2–5 cm or involves a few lymph nodes.Often treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
-Aim: to remove cancer and prevent recurrence.

🔹 Stage III – Advanced Local DiseaseTumor is larger (>5 cm) or deeply involves chest wall or skin.May affect several lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone.Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is often given first to shrink the tumor before surgery.

🔹 Stage IV – Metastatic Breast CancerCancer has spread to distant organs such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain.Focus shifts from cure to control and palliation — improving comfort, function, and quality of life.

🔹 Key Takeaways About Staging
Staging is determined by tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M) — known as the TNM system.
Early detection (Stage 0–II) often leads to complete recovery.
Even in advanced stages, modern treatments help patients live longer and better.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Understanding your cancer stage means understanding your path to healing.
Early stages bring high cure rates, while advanced stages focus on strength, control, and care.
Every stage deserves hope, guidance, and courage — because awareness leads to timely action and survival.
🎀

14/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
When Is Mastectomy the Right Option? 🎀
🔹 Understanding Mastectomy
A mastectomy is a surgery to remove the entire breast to treat or prevent breast cancer.
It remains one of the most effective treatments when breast-conserving options are not suitable.
The goal is to completely remove cancer, ensure safety, and reduce recurrence risk.

🔹 Types of Mastectomy
1-Simple (Total) Mastectomy: Removes the whole breast tissue.
2-Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM): Removes the breast and nearby lymph nodes.
3-Skin- or Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Preserves outer skin or ni**le for later reconstruction.
4-Bilateral Mastectomy: Removes both breasts — often for high-risk or genetic cases.

🔹 When Mastectomy Is RecommendedCancer is large compared to breast size.Multiple cancer areas in the same breast.Recurrence after previous breast-conserving surgery.Genetic mutations (like BRCA1/2) increasing future cancer risk.Patient prefers removal due to anxiety about recurrence.Radiation is not possible or contraindicated.

🔹 Who May Choose ItWomen seeking peace of mind through complete removal.Those unable to undergo radiotherapy due to other health issues.Patients with strong family history or high-risk breast cancer profiles.

🔹 Benefits of MastectomyRemoves all visible cancer tissue.Reduces chance of local recurrence.May avoid radiation in some cases.Enables reconstruction for cosmetic restoration.

🔹 Recovery and CareHospital stay is usually 2–4 days.Pain and swelling are controlled with medicines.Arm exercises help prevent stiffness.Follow-up includes wound care, drain management, and emotional support.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Mastectomy is not a failure — it’s a powerful, life-saving decision made with courage and care.
When chosen at the right time, it offers safety, strength, and a fresh start toward recovery.
Every woman’s journey is unique — the best surgery is the one that gives both cure and confidence.
🎀

13/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
What is Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy? 🎀
🔹 Understanding the Procedure
A Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is a special test done during breast cancer surgery to check whether cancer has spread t.o the lymph nodes.
It helps doctors plan treatment more accurately and avoid unnecessary removal of multiple lymph nodes.

🔹 What Are Lymph Nodes?Lymph nodes act as the body’s filter system, trapping harmful cells, including cancer.They are found under the arm (axilla), near the breast, and in other parts of the body.Checking these nodes helps determine the stage of cancer and guide further therapy.

🔹 What Is the Sentinel Node?
The sentinel node is the first lymph node where cancer cells are most likely to spread from the breast.
If this node is free of cancer, it usually means that the remaining lymph nodes are also clear — saving the patient from extensive surgery.

🔹 How the Biopsy Is DoneA special dye or radioactive tracer is injected near the tumor before surgery.This tracer travels to the sentinel node, identifying it for removal.The surgeon removes one or a few nodes for testing.A pathologist examines them under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

🔹 Why It’s ImportantHelps determine if cancer has spread beyond the breast.Avoids full axillary lymph node dissection when not necessary.Reduces risk of arm swelling (lymphedema), pain, and stiffness.Provides accurate staging for further treatment decisions.

🔹 What to Expect After SurgeryMild swelling or soreness under the arm is common.Normal arm movement returns in a few days with gentle exercise.Most patients recover quickly and can go home the same or next day.

🔹 Key Message
🎗️ Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy is a safe, precise, and minimally invasive procedure.
It allows doctors to assess cancer spread while protecting healthy tissue.
With this modern technique, breast cancer treatment becomes more accurate, less painful, and recovery much faster.
🎀

12/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
How to Manage Chemotherapy Side Effects 🎀
🔹 Understanding Chemotherapy Side Effects
Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cancer cells — but it can also affect some healthy cells, leading to temporary side effects.
These symptoms are manageable and usually improve after treatment.
The key is awareness, care, and communication with your medical team.

🔹 Common Side Effects
1-Fatigue: Feeling tired is common but manageable with rest and hydration.
2-Nausea and Vomiting: Controlled by prescribed anti-nausea medicines.
3-Hair Loss: Temporary — hair usually regrows after chemotherapy ends.
4-Mouth Sores: Gentle oral hygiene and avoiding spicy foods can help.
5-Low Immunity: Caused by reduced white blood cells; requires extra care to prevent infections.
6-Loss of Appetite: Small, frequent meals and nutrient-rich foods support strength.

🔹 Practical Tips for Daily ManagementEat a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and soft foods.Drink plenty of fluids — 8–10 glasses of water daily.Take short naps or gentle walks to fight fatigue.Use mild shampoos, avoid hair coloring, and protect the scalp.Keep good oral hygiene — use a soft brush and rinse with saltwater.Avoid crowded places or sick contacts during low immunity phases.

🔹 Emotional and Mental Well-beingFeeling anxious or low is natural — talk to your doctor or counselor.Join support groups to connect with others on the same journey.Practice relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation.

🔹 When to Call Your DoctorFever above 100°FPersistent vomiting or diarrheaMouth sores making eating difficultShortness of breath or unexplained bleeding

🔹 Key Message
Chemotherapy side effects are temporary and treatable.
🎗️ With good nutrition, hygiene, emotional support, and open communication, you can manage them effectively.
Every phase of chemo is a step toward healing, strength, and hope.
🎀

11/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
How Chemotherapy Works in Shrinking Tumors 🎀
🔹 Understanding Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (Chemo) uses powerful medicines to destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing.It works throughout the body, targeting cells that divide quickly — which is why it’s effective against breast cancer.Its main purpose is to shrink tumors, control cancer spread, and improve treatment outcomes.

🔹 How It Shrinks TumorsChemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which cancer cells do more than normal ones.The drugs damage DNA and cell structure, stopping cancer from multiplying.As cells die, the tumor becomes smaller and softer, often visible on scans within weeks.In some cases, chemo can make previously inoperable tumors suitable for surgery.

🔹 Types of Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer
1-Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Given before surgery to shrink large tumors and allow breast-conserving surgery.
2-Adjuvant Chemotherapy: Given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
3-Palliative Chemotherapy: Used in advanced stages to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

🔹 Common Chemotherapy Drugs
Doctors may use single or combination regimens such as Taxanes, Anthracyclines, Cyclophosphamide, or Platinum-based drugs, chosen based on tumor type and patient health.

🔹 What to Expect During TreatmentChemotherapy is given in cycles, allowing the body to recover between sessions.Side effects may include fatigue, hair loss, nausea, or low immunity — all temporary and manageable.Regular blood tests and scans monitor progress and response.

🔹 Benefits of Tumor ShrinkageMakes surgery easier and more effective.Reduces the risk of recurrence.Improves survival in early and advanced stages.Increases chances of breast preservation in suitable patients.

🔹 Key Message
Chemotherapy is more than medicine — it’s a powerful step toward control and healing.
🎗️ By shrinking tumors, preventing spread, and preparing for further treatment, it turns fear into hope and strength.
Each session brings you closer to recovery, resilience, and renewed life.

10/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
Understanding Stage 4 Palliation 🎀
🔹 What is Stage 4 Cancer?
Stage 4 breast cancer means the disease has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to distant organs such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain.
It is also called metastatic breast cancer.
At this stage, the goal of treatment is not cure — but control, comfort, and quality of life.

🔹 What is Palliation?
Palliation or palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms, reducing pain, and supporting emotional and physical well-being.
It ensures that patients live as comfortably and meaningfully as possible, even while managing advanced cancer.

🔹 Goals of Palliative TreatmentControl the spread and growth of cancer.Relieve pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath.Improve appetite, sleep, and emotional health.Maintain dignity, peace, and daily functioning.

🔹 Common Palliative Treatment Options
Hormonal or targeted therapy: To slow cancer growth.
Chemotherapy (low-intensity): Used to control symptoms or shrink tumors.
Radiotherapy: Relieves bone pain or pressure from metastasis.
Pain management: With modern medicines and supportive care.
Psychological & nutritional support: To enhance mental and physical strength.

🔹 Supportive Care Beyond TreatmentPalliative care is not only medical — it also includes counseling, family education, physiotherapy, and emotional guidance.

🔹 Myths About Stage 4 Cancer
1.Myth: “Nothing can be done now.”
Reality: Many treatments help control symptoms and extend life.
2.Myth: “Palliation means giving up.”
Reality: It means focusing on comfort, peace, and dignity.

🔹 Role of the Medical Team
A palliative team includes oncologists, nurses, pain specialists, psychologists, and nutritionists.
They work together to provide holistic care — physical, emotional, and spiritual.

🔹 Key Message
Palliation is not the end of treatment it’s the beginning of care that values comfort, hope, and humanity.Stage 4 cancer may change the journey, but with palliative support, every patient deserves a life filled with dignity, love, and peace.

09/10/2025

Patient’s Complete Guide
🔹 Understanding Biopsy
A biopsy is a simple medical procedure in which a small tissue sample is taken from a lump or suspicious area.It helps doctors confirm whether cells are cancerous or benign (non-cancerous).It’s the most accurate way to diagnose cancer before deciding on treatment.

🔹 Why People Fear BiopsyMany patients worry that a biopsy might “spread” cancer cells in the body.This is a common misconception that creates unnecessary fear and delay in treatment.In reality, biopsy is a safe, controlled, and scientifically proven procedure.

🔹 How a Biopsy WorksA thin needle or small incision is used to collect tissue.The sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist.The procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes only a few minutes.

🔹 Common Types of BiopsyFine Needle Aspiration (FNAC): Uses a thin needle to collect cells.Core Needle Biopsy: Takes a small tissue sample for detailed testing.Excisional Biopsy: Removes a lump entirely for examination.

🔹 Myth vs. Reality
Myth: “Biopsy can cause cancer to spread.”
Reality: There is no scientific evidence that biopsy spreads cancer. Decades of research confirm its safety.
Myth: “Needle touches the tumor and spreads cells.”
Reality: Needles are designed to seal and minimize cell movement.
Myth: “Avoiding biopsy prevents cancer growth.”
Reality: Avoiding biopsy delays diagnosis and makes treatment more difficult.

🔹 Why Biopsy Is ImportantConfirms the exact type, grade, and stage of cancer.Helps doctors choose the right treatment — surgery, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy.

🔹 Safety Measures During BiopsyPerformed by trained specialists using sterile techniques.Needles and tools are designed to prevent leakage of cancer cells.The risk of spread is extremely low — almost zero with modern methods.

🔹 Key Message
A biopsy does not spread cancer it helps save lives through early and accurate diagnosis.Trust your medical team, trust the science.Early diagnosis means faster treatment, better results,and renewed hope for recovery.

Dr. Aneeqa Qureshi

21/10/2025

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Monday	18:00 - 19:00
Wednesday	18:00 - 19:00
Friday	18:00 - 19:00