FoCP preps for breast cancer month
sharjah — Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP), who made their mark in cancer awareness initiatives, has announced their programmes to mark the upcoming international breast cancer awareness month in October.
The non-profit organisation’s Pink Caravan initiative has been championing the cause of breast cancer awareness in the UAE since 2011.
Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, directorgeneral of FoCP and head of the Pink Caravan medical and awareness committee, said: “Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, both in developed and developing countries. Pink Caravan has been successful in providing vital information, timely diagnosis and the resources for treatment and care to many women since 2011. When it comes to breast cancer, information is power, and awareness may well become one’s new lease on life.”
During a 10-day pan-UAE breast cancer awareness campaign this March, Pink Caravan has provided free breast cancer screenings to almost 7,500 people across the country. The FoCP initiative will continue their mission to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care of this disease, through the ‘Pink Caravan Corporate Wellness Day’.
As part of the initiatives for the breast cancer awareness month, both government and private sector organisations are eligible to book a Breast Health Wellness Day for their employees.
Awareness sessions will be undertaken by Pink Caravan medical experts. These will include informative lectures that will aim to educate maximum number of
7,500 screened during the 10-day pan-UAE breast cancer awareness campaign in March
When it comes to breast cancer, information is power, and If adequate diagnosis and treatment are made available in time, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured. Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide.” Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, director-general of FoCP
staff and attendees on being able to detect physical changes in the body through self-examination, etc. Special guest speakers including Elaine Kelly, Dr Khuloud Bajbouj and experts from The Clean Living Company and LifeWorks Foundation will lead the speaking sessions.
Also, private clinical examinations will also be held for up to 50 persons a day by a specialised team of doctors and nurses who will bring all the necessary equipment and medical consumables required to conduct these tests.
“Through this month-long wellness and campaign, our main aim is to sensitise more and more people in the UAE about the importance of awareness. Currently there is not sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer, therefore, early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. If adequate diagnosis and treatment are made available in time, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured,” Al Madhi added.
Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Pink Caravan will also facilitate organisational fundraising initiatives and will oversee staff engagement initiatives that companies may want to take up to raise funds for breast cancer treatment.
Nine West vouchers, a nail spa and special guest speakers will be part of the wellness day package. A variety of attractive merchandise like caps, anchor bracelets and others supporting the cause will also be made available for sale.
reporters@khaleejtimnes.com