Background: Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Pakistan, where adherence to chemotherapy is a significant challenge.

 

Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study aimed to investigate chemotherapy adherence and factors influencing it among breast cancer patients. A total of 283 breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy were recruited from two tertiary care hospitals, one in the private sector and one in the public sector in Karachi, Pakistan. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire, and chemotherapy adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8).

Lamha Saleem Sayani is a Master of Science in Public Health graduate from the Aga Khan University, Pakistan with a background in nursing and hands-on experience in oncology care. Her research interests lie in health systems strengthening, cancer care and adherence behavior in low-resource settings, and patient-centered outcomes. This research is her master's thesis which focuses on factors influencing chemotherapy adherence among breast cancer patients in Karachi, Pakistan. With prior experience as a Registered Nurse in oncology unit and Medical Assistant for a U.S.-based hospital in Florida, Lamha brings a blend of clinical knowledge and public health insight to her work. She aspires to contribute to impactful health research and advocacy, especially in the areas of non-communicable diseases and women’s health.