Skincare Products & Today’s Hype: Support or Dependency?
In today’s world, skincare has evolved beyond a simple daily routine. It has become a booming industry filled with promises of overnight results, miracle serums, and “perfect skin” solutions. But an important question remains: how much of this is real science, and how much is marketing hype?Understanding the difference between skincare as support versus dependency is essential for maintaining healthy, long-lasting skin.Effectiveness & ClaimsMany skincare brands claim visible skin transformation within weeks. In reality, true and lasting skin improvement takes time—often months. Skin renewal is a gradual biological process, and quick fixes rarely deliver sustainable results.Unrealistic expectations often lead to frustration and unnecessary product overuse. Patience, consistency, and professional guidance remain the foundation of effective skincare.Serums & Product OverloadSerums often contain powerful active ingredients such as Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, AHA, BHA, Vitamin C, Retinol, and Glycolic Acid. While these ingredients can be beneficial, they are not suitable for every skin type.Using multiple serums without proper guidance may result in irritation, sensitivity, acne flare-ups, or long-term skin damage. Active ingredients should always be introduced carefully and under professional supervision.Necessity vs TrendAre skincare brands essential for everyone? The answer lies in balance. Moisturizer and sunscreen are basic necessities for most people, while serums and other active-based products require expert advice.Earlier generations often maintained healthy skin without complex skincare routines. Healthier diets, lower stress levels, and simpler lifestyles played a major role. Even today, overall health and lifestyle remain just as important as skincare products.Sunscreens, Night Creams & TonersDaily sunscreen use is essential. Ultraviolet (UV) exposure causes premature aging, pigmentation, tanning, and long-term skin damage.Night creams and toners are not necessary for everyone. Depending on skin type, they may clog pores or cause dryness. Their use should always be based on professional advice.Marketing vs Medical AdviceMany skincare brands exaggerate product benefits—promising instant acne cures or rapid fairness. Such claims often create unrealistic expectations and dependency.Influencer recommendations are promotional in nature and should not be confused with medical advice. Skincare decisions should always be based on professional medical guidance rather than social media trends.Consumer AwarenessExpensive skincare products are not always better. Affordable options can be equally effective when selected appropriately.Before purchasing skincare products, it is important to:Understand your skin type and concerns Choose dermatologist-tested products Avoid blindly following trends and seek professional guidance Support, Not DependencyModern skincare should serve as support, not a replacement for healthy living. Today’s stressful lifestyles, environmental exposure, and dietary habits place additional strain on skin health.While skincare products can protect and maintain the skin, true skin health comes from a holistic approach—balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and consistent self-care.ConclusionSkincare products are valuable tools when used correctly. They are most effective when combined with informed choices, professional guidance, and a healthy lifestyle. Long-term skin health is achieved through balance—not dependency.
Colorectal Cancer in Pakistan: Why Early Detection Can Save Lives
Colorectal cancer is emerging as one of the fastest-growing cancers in Pakistan, yet it remains widely misunderstood and often detected late. Despite increasing cases, awareness about symptoms, screening, and timely treatment remains limited—making early detection a critical factor in saving lives. What Is Colorectal Cancer?Colorectal cancer develops in any part of the large intestine, including the colon and rectum. Due to its location within the abdominal cavity, it has distinct clinical features compared to other cancers. One of the biggest challenges is that early-stage colorectal cancer often presents without noticeable symptoms, making timely screening essential for effective treatment.Rising Incidence in PakistanPakistan currently lacks a centralized national cancer registry, which limits accurate data collection. However, hospital-based and regional data clearly indicate a significant rise in gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.Several factors contribute to this increase, including: Genetic predisposition Changes in dietary habits Lifestyle-related risk factors A particularly concerning trend is the younger age of onset. While colorectal cancer is typically diagnosed in older adults in Western countries, cases in Pakistan are now being reported in individuals as young as 14 to 15 years. This shift highlights an urgent public health concern.Red Flags You Should Never IgnoreColorectal cancer often presents with warning signs that are frequently ignored or mistaken for less serious conditions. The following symptoms should never be overlooked:• Family history of cancer Individuals with a family history should begin screening 10 years earlier than the age at which their relative was diagnosed.• Bleeding per rectum Blood in the stool—whether fresh, clotted, or mixed—is often mistaken for hemorrhoids and should always be investigated.• Unexplained weight loss Losing approximately 10% of body weight within six months without dieting is a major red flag.• Anemia (low hemoglobin levels) Commonly associated with right-sided colon cancers, leading to fatigue and shortness of breath.• Loss of appetite Persistent lack of desire to eat requires medical evaluation.When these symptoms appear together, immediate consultation with a healthcare professional is essential.Screening Protocols: Where Pakistan StandsAs a developing country, Pakistan is still in the early stages of implementing widespread colorectal cancer screening due to cost and accessibility challenges. Despite these limitations, awareness remains the most effective first step toward early detection.Basic screening options include:• Stool occult blood tests• Colonoscopy, especially for:Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancerPatients with inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s diseasePolicy-level initiatives—similar to national health insurance programs—could significantly improve access to preventive screening.Role of Specialists in Early DetectionPatients presenting with painless rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or anemia should undergo prompt evaluation. Early investigations such as colonoscopy and timely referral to general surgery or specialized oncology units play a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment planning.Diagnosis and Staging WorkupAccurate staging determines the extent of disease and guides treatment decisions: Stage 1: Localized disease Stage 2: Locally advanced but contained Stage 3: Involvement of surrounding tissues or lymph nodes Stage 4: Spread to distant organs such as the liver or lungs Diagnostic investigations may include: Blood tests (CBC to assess anemia) Stool occult blood tests Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy with biopsy CT scans MRI, particularly for rectal cancers Self-diagnosis can delay treatment—specialist consultation is essential.Advances in Surgical TreatmentColorectal cancer treatment has advanced significantly with the adoption of minimally invasive surgical techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic procedures.Key benefits include: Shorter hospital stays and improved cost-effectiveness Reduced postoperative pain Enhanced precision through magnified surgical visualization While minimally invasive surgery is preferred, open surgery remains an option for extensive or advanced disease.Final ThoughtColorectal cancer is no longer limited to older age groups or developed countries—it is rising in Pakistan and affecting younger populations. Early detection, timely screening, and appropriate referral can significantly improve survival outcomes.
Healthy Aging Through Physiotherapy: Shalamar’s Commitment
The Physiotherapy Department of Shalamar Hospital, in collaboration with the Shalamar School of Allied Health Sciences, proudly organized a Free Physiotherapy Advice Camp on September 8th to mark this important day.With this year’s theme “Healthy Aging”, the camp highlighted the essential role of physiotherapy in enhancing mobility, independence, and quality of life across all stages of life. Hundreds of patients benefited from free consultations, assessments, and expert guidance provided by our dedicated physiotherapy team.We were honored by the presence of our COO of Shalamar Hospital and the Principal of Shalamar School of Allied Health Sciences, who appreciated the tireless efforts of the organizing team.The day concluded with an inspiring Physiotherapy Awareness Walk, where faculty, students, and healthcare professionals joined hands to promote the message of healthy, active, and fulfilling living at every age.
Event Highlights – Islamic Banking Awareness Seminar
Shalamar Hospital, in collaboration with Meezan Bank, successfully organized an Islamic Banking Awareness Seminar at the Shalamar Hospital Auditorium. Speaker: Syed Junaid Ali Hussani (Shariah Advisor) Chief Guest: Dr. Ayesha Nauman, COO – SHThe seminar was attended by customers, doctors, students, and staff executives. Participants gained valuable insights on: The Islamic Economic System Riba and its Types Islamic Contracts & their Types Differences between Islamic & Conventional Banking Islamic Banking FrameworkWe thank all participants for their active engagement and making this seminar a success!
Independence Day Celebrations at Shalamar Hospital
This 14th August, we celebrated the spirit of freedom with our little heroes! Children filled the day with joy, laughter, and patriotic zeal as they enjoyed fun activities, and even cut a special Independence Day cakeIt was truly a day of smiles, celebrations, and unforgettable moments of happiness for our young stars.May our children always grow in a safe, healthy, and prosperous Pakistan.
Shalamar Hospital Expresses Deep Gratitude to Faysal Bank and LCCI for Supporting Accessible Healthcare
Shalamar Hospital extends heartfelt gratitude to Faysal Bank for their generous support in our mission to deliver advanced healthcare and provide treatment to non-affording patients, in collaboration with the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI).At a special ceremony hosted by Mian Abuzar Shad (President, LCCI), Mr. Mohammad Rizwan-ul-Haq (Head of Distribution – Retail Banking, Faysal Bank) presented the cheque to Dr. Ayesha Nauman (COO) and Syed Ali Raza Zaidi (CFO) of Shalamar Hospital.This contribution will help us enhance patient care and ensure more people have access to quality treatment. Together, we’re making healthcare accessible for all.
On World Hepatitis Day 2025
On World Hepatitis Day 2025, Shalamar Hospital reaffirmed its commitment to public health by offering free Hepatitis B & C screening and organizing an impactful awareness walk.Led by the Department of Gastroenterology, the event served as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility in fighting silent infections like Hepatitis.Together, we’re working Towards a Hepatitis-Free Pakistan.
RCOG World Congress 2025 London 23-25th, June 2025
The RCOG Congress 2025 was an exceptional event that brought together 3,000+ delegates from over 100 countries and around 300 of them were from Pakistan. The event began with an important meeting of the IRC and LG chairs on Sunday, June 22nd. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration and shared insights into work done by other IRC Leaders across the globe. Prof Nazli Hameed represented Pakistan. On Monday 23-6-25, Prof. Nazli Hameed chaired a session on on Pelvic floor birth trauma. Additionally, she chaired the IRC meeting showcasing the remarkable achievements and plan for next 6-12 months of the IRC for the year 2024-2025. There was emphasis on promising future collaborations including “Gynaecology Health matters” Tuesday 24th June, 25 began with an invigorating early riser session led by the Pakistan IRC featuring following talks Navigating ethical waters: RCOG Vs South Asian realities on termination of pregnancy for fetal indications: Nazli Hameed. Comparison of Training experience in NHS Vs Pakistan: Rehana Rahim Bridging the gap: Law, Medical indemnity & Clinical Practice: Rabia Mushtaq. It attracted a substantial number of participants, all united in their support for Pakistan. We are pleased with the strong academic presence of Pakistan by showcasing many oral & poster presentations by clinicians across the country. There were two oral presentations and 4 poster presentations from Shalamar Medical & Dental College. Prof. Nazli Hameed represented Pakistan in the “RCOG’s Got Talent.”. The congress concluded on a high note, with Pakistan again winning the prestigious Best Oral presentation Award, and 2nd prize in poster presentation.
(UCP) has been officially added to the Shalamar Hospital
We are delighted to announce that the University of Central Punjab (UCP) has been officially added to the Shalamar Hospital Corporate Panel list. As per the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), UCP Faculty members, Employees, Students, and their families will be entitled to special discounted rates for quality and advanced healthcare services at Shalamar Hospital.The MOU was signed by Mr. Danish Faraz, HOD Corporate Services at Shalamar Hospital, and Dr.Hammad Naveed (Pro-Rector) at UCP — marking the beginning of a valuable collaboration focused on community health and well-being.
Surgical Safety Checklist
A surgical safety checklist is essential because it helps prevent errors, improves communication among the surgical team, and ensures patient safety. It acts as a structured guide to confirm critical steps before, during, and after surgery, reducing complications and improving overall outcomes. Here’s why it matters:Prevents mistakes: It ensures the right procedure is performed on the right patient, reducing the risk of serious errors.Enhances teamwork: Encourages better communication among surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses.Reduces complications: Helps track important safety measures, like infection prevention and anesthesia checks.Standardizes best practices: Ensures consistency in safety protocols across different healthcare settings. The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced a global surgical safety checklist that has significantly reduced post-surgical complications. It’s a simple tool, but its impact can be life-saving.