Dr. Farzana Azam

One of Pakistan’s Pioneering Female Forensic Experts

Dr. Farzana Azam, an architect in the field of forensic medicine and a passionate advocate for women in healthcare. With an impressive career that bridges academia and clinical practice, Dr. Azam has dedicated her life to unraveling the complexities of human behavior and the intricacies of medical science. Her groundbreaking research in forensic medicine not only enhances our understanding of mental health but also highlights the crucial role of empathy and compassion in medicine.

A post graduate of Dow university of Dr. Azam has continuously pushed the boundaries of traditional medicine, demonstrating that women can excel in every facet of the medical field. As a devoted educator and mentor, she inspires her students to pursue their passions fearlessly, challenging societal norms along the way. Her work goes beyond the confines of the classroom, as she tirelessly advocates for patient rights and safety, empowering women and marginalized communities.

Dr. Azam’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. She firmly believes that education is the key to breaking barriers, and her unwavering support for female medical professionals serves as an inspiration to many. With her sights set on pursuing a Ph.D. in forensic psychiatry or Bio-ethics, she is poised to make even greater strides in her field, leaving a lasting impact on future generations. Join us in celebrating her remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place through medicine!

Let’s start our conversation with the beginning of your journey as a doctor. You’ve chosen the unique field of forensics, a path where few female doctors have ventured in Pakistan. What inspired you to enter this field, and what were your thoughts when making that decision?

After completing my M.B.B.S, I moved into clinical work but later began teaching, gaining valuable experience in both clinical practice and academics. I initially joined the Forensic Medicine department as a Lecturer, tasked with teaching M.B.B.S third-year students. This was where forensic medicine became my primary subject. My interest in the field grew as I observed a significant shortage of female doctors and experts in forensic medicine. Today, in cases involving accidents, poisoning, suicides, homicides, or sexual assault, there is often a critical need for female experts to assist, yet they are rarely available. Forensic doctors play a key role, often doubling as medico-legal officers in these scenarios.

Primarily, I am an academician. I teach forensic medicine to under grade medical students, emphasizing its clinical, medico-legal, and forensic values. It is essential that every graduating doctor understands the cases they may encounter, particularly the distinction between medico- legal and clinical cases. As doctors, we bear dual responsibilities: we must treat our patients while upholding ethical duties on how we approach each case. My interest in forensic medicine continued to grow, leading me to pursue postgraduate studies and research in this field, allowing me to advance further and contribute more significantly to the profession.

You’ve conducted in-depth research on traffic accidents, particularly focusing on motorcycle accidents, which are widely used and pose a significant risk. This research has been published in medical journals and recognized as an outstanding study in this area. Karachi, being a metropolitan city with millions of daily motorcycle commuters, faces a high rate of such accidents. This must have been a challenging undertaking for you, wasn’t it?

Karachi is like a vast ocean—you can’t fully comprehend its depth with a single dive. It’s a bustling metropolitan city with just four government hospitals housing medico-legal departments. I gathered data from these facilities on registered motorcycle accident cases, which have shown a significant rise. Over five years, we examined 11,444 cases in which First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered by the Medico-Legal Officer (MLO) section. However, in Pakistan, a large number of cases remain unreported; countless clinics and small hospitals treat accident victims who then go home without reporting the incidents.

Our study revealed an alarming trend: as the number of motorcycles increases, so does the rate of accidents. In a separate study, I focused on the types and causes of injuries, particularly for passengers. While bike riders often wear helmets, passengers—especially those on the back seat called pillion riders—typically do not. As a result, they suffer serious injuries, like cervical fractures or head trauma in falls, which can lead to instant fatalities. Women and children are especially vulnerable; for instance, women’s Dupatta (Scarf) can get caught in the wheels, turning into a choking hazard with fatal consequences.woman falls in traffic, they may be unable to get up, leading to ‘crossover injuries’ when other vehicles run over them. These are tragically common in high-traffic areas. My research not only analyzed these various accident types but also provided recommendations. I proposed measures to improve awareness through public and private institutions to better educate the public on safety and preventative actions.

As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Forensic Medicine at Liaquat National Hospital & Medical College, I am committed to raising awareness through my sessions and encouraging students to share these insights with others. My goal is to emphasize the importance of safe riding practices: avoiding reckless speed, limiting bike passengers to two, and ensuring both riders wear helmets. Unlike enclosed vehicles, motorcycles offer no protective structure, leaving riders highly vulnerable; even minor falls often result in fractures that can confine children to bed for weeks.

In my research, I highlighted the devastating impact of motorcycle accidents, particularly when the family breadwinner is injured, leading to financial strain, severe disabilities, or worse—all often due to simple carelessness, haste, or neglect of safety precautions.

Currently, I am conducting a study that has been submitted for publication at one of the pioneer public sector hospital, focusing on motorcycle licensing issues. With easy financing options, bikes are now widely accessible, often available in installments or directly from workplaces. As the use of bikes continues to grow, strict adherence to traffic rules is essential, especially given the widespread role of motorcycles in deliveries, which means this mode of transport must be regulated to ensure rider safety.

The urgency to deliver on time often leads riders to disregard their own safety, but it’s critical to understand that two minutes of delay is better than spending six months in bed due to an accident. I advocate for stricter enforcement of traffic rules to address issues like bribes that allow riders to bypass penalties. Parents need to recognize the risks when handing over motorcycles to young, inexperienced riders—too often they ignore the dangers, only to regret it later.

Absolutely, changing public mentality can drive real societal shifts. Many of us speed because we’re late, not because it’s necessary, and this mindset needs a shift. In my study, I recommended the reintroduction of safety stands on the back of bikes to help stabilize passengers and prevent falls. A belt for the back seat could also improve passenger safety. Other countries have implemented similar safety features and regulations, yet we overlook these measures locally. We need to realize that the risk of injury affects everyone, and if safety doesn’t motivate change, we must take responsibility and adjust our behavior.A major cause of accidents remains the lack of regulation on who rides motorcycles, with young, untrained riders often engaging in stunts, one-wheeling, and reckless racing. Raising awareness about these risks is essential, and it’s time we make a collective effort to prioritize safety for the society.

Can you explain what forensic medicine truly entails? Many people think it’s primarily about conducting post-mortems, but is there more to this field than just autopsies?

Forensic medicine encompasses much more than just post-mortems; it is a diverse and captivating field that applies medical expertise to legal inquiries. This includes investigating injuries, determining causes of death, and analyzing evidence in criminal cases. In my forensic research, I focused on various age groups of accident victims, highlighting a common misconception that forensic work is solely related to autopsies. In reality, forensic medicine spans multiple areas of expertise.

For instance, we can determine an individual’s age through forensic methods by analyzing bones in the knees, elbows, and other areas. This is particularly relevant in juvenile justice, where it’s essential to ascertain the true age of someone claiming to be 15 years old to decide whether to place them in juvenile detention or in a youth sports team.

Additionally, forensic medicine plays a critical role in handling rape cases. In Karachi, Dr. Summiya Syed, a police surgeon, has established a crisis cell dedicated to supporting female rape victims. She has built this initiative with confidence and determination, gaining the community’s trust through her hard work. As a result, more individuals are coming forward with their cases, demonstrating how forensic evidence is crucial in these sensitive situations.

How do you cope with the emotional weight of dealing with such distressing and painful issues on a daily basis?

My, Forensic post graduate journey began with the permission of my mentor Professor Dr. Karim ullah Makki (Principal LNHMC) during the difficult COVID-19 period. Then, officially this journey started under the guidance of venerated supervisors like Professor Dr. Mukkaram Ali (currently HOD Forensic at LNHMC), Professor Dr. Zakki uddin Ahmad and Professor Dr. Ramlah Naz at DOW University of health sciences.

When I first entered this field, I was overwhelmed with fear and even questioned whether I had chosen the right path. The process of exhumation, where graves are carefully uncovered, can be particularly daunting. The entire forensic team is involved in this delicate operation, collecting samples and evidence that are critical to the investigation.

Exhumation itself is a complex procedure typically initiated when there are doubts about the cause of death—such as claims that a person was murdered rather than having died by suicide. In Pakistan, there is no specific time limit for conducting an exhumation, which adds another layer of complexity to these cases.

How do you manage to balance your professional responsibilities with your family life and personal commitments?

Balancing my work and personal life requires careful time management, especially since I juggle both teaching and clinical duties six days a week. I am responsible for conducting lectures and sessions, preparing lesson materials, and studying for my teaching obligations. Additionally, I serve as an internal and external examiner, participating in exams at Jinnah, Dow, and other institutions. This busy schedule can be overwhelming at times, and I do experience moments of fatigue and boredom. However, my passion for my field keeps me motivated and engaged.

At home, I also take the time to teach my children’s. I have 3 lovely children by the grace of Almighty, My husband and I make it a priority to spend quality time with them every day, particularly on weekends, discussing their studies, reviewing test results, and attending parent-teacher meetings. One of our family traditions is gathering around the dinner table every night, ensuring that all five of us share that time together without compromise. Many people assume that doctors might struggle to manage household responsibilities effectively. While there have been challenges and gaps in my education along the way, it takes dedication and courage to find a harmonious balance between my professional and personal life.

People often say that behind every successful man stands a remarkable woman. Who do you believe deserves that credit in your life?

My parents have always been incredibly loving and encouraging, and I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support. Their dedication reflects what every parent aspires to achieve for their children. After marriage, the responsibility of supporting my ambitions shifted to my husband, and it is through his unwavering encouragement that I was able to continue my education and pursue my dreams.

Azam has been my greatest pillar of strength; it’s rare to find a partner so committed to helping someone achieve their aspirations. He has made countless sacrifices and is always there to lift me up, especially during moments when I feel overwhelmed. Despite his busy schedule, he consistently prioritizes my needs and well-being. I also want to take a moment to honor my late mother-in-law, may she rest in peace, which was an immense source of support throughout my journey.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS? ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING GOALS OR PROJECTS YOU ARE SPECIALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT?

My current plan is to pursue a Ph.D. in forensic psychiatry or Bio-ethics; I hope to scrutinize my dream soon, although it will require a significant commitment of time and efforts. Psychiatry delves into human behavior, revealing that many of us often lead double lives—presenting one face while hiding our true selves. This dissonance can lead to various problems and mental health issues.

It’s essential to embrace authenticity and pursue your passions with honesty and sincerity. By doing so, I believe that Allah will guide you to your desired path in due time. Unfortunately, jealousy and envy have become prevalent in our society, and it’s vital to cultivate contentment with what we have. Finding happiness in our circumstances is Key to overcoming these challenges.

We must recognize that what we possess is ultimately a division of GOD will, and we should have faith in His plan. While modernization brings both positive and negative impacts on our lives, it’s important to address these effects thoughtfully and constructively.

Will you like to share any inspiring message would you like to share with others to empower them on their journey?

I would like to address a common misconception: many people believe that female should not be educated or that they should not pursue careers as doctors due to safety concerns in the medical field. However, I believe that female doctors can excel in their roles because they often possess heightened empathy and intuition, which allow them to understand their patients’ needs on a deeper level.

It’s essential to encourage young women to pursue their dreams in medicine, as their unique perspectives and skills can lead to better patient care. We should not hinder their ambitions; after all, if a female patient requires medical attention, she may feel more comfortable being examined by a female doctor rather than a male one. Let’s support and empower our daughters to follow their passions in the medical field and beyond.