Local business owner pays £3,000 for breast cancer diagnosis after GP visit
Ariba Karim, 32, owner of Wip coffee shop on Belfast’s Lisburn Road, has spoken about her experience after finding a lump in her breast and seeking medical advice.
After saying she felt her concerns were dismissed because of her age, Ms Karim sought a private appointment at the Ulster Independent Clinic, where she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is now undergoing chemotherapy.
A Department of Health spokesperson said the Minister had called for greater certainty over the Department’s budget to ensure the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy was adequately funded.
Scalp cooling treatments (cold cap), which can help reduce hair loss during chemotherapy, are not currently commissioned in Northern Ireland. The Department said any future introduction would depend on evidence of clinical and cost effectiveness.
Eligible patients experiencing medical hair loss can access free wigs through Health and Social Care Trusts.
Despite her diagnosis, Ms Karim said the support of Belfast’s community had helped her through treatment.
“I just can’t imagine getting to this point without the people in Belfast. Genuinely, we are in it together.”
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