The Emirates Oncology Society, in collaboration with the Emirates Medical Association and the Breast Cancer Working Group, held a large-scale event at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai to honor breast cancer survivors and spread hope among patients as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The celebration, held under the slogan “Together We Are Stronger,” emphasized the importance of community support and medical progress in the fight against cancer.
During the event, a panel of medical specialists discussed advances in oncology, breast surgery, breast reconstruction, and psychiatry, stressing the critical role psychological support plays for patients and their families. Survivors also shared personal stories of triumph, offering hope to those undergoing treatment.
The gathering aimed to change societal perceptions of breast cancer, shifting away from fatalistic views and promoting the message that recovery is achievable. It also featured an interactive “Laughter Yoga” session, providing participants with an innovative approach to stress relief during treatment.
Words of Inspiration from Leadership
Professor Humaid bin Harmal Al Shamsi, President of the Emirates Oncology Society, highlighted the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
“Through Pink October, we celebrate survivors and share messages of hope with newly diagnosed patients. The UAE’s recovery rate for breast cancer is among the highest in the world, thanks to advances in medicine and strong healthcare infrastructure.”
Professor Al Shamsi noted that the UAE is ranked among the five countries with the lowest cancer-related mortality worldwide, attributing this achievement to state-of-the-art treatment facilities and increasing awareness about early detection. He added, “The rate of recovery exceeds 95% when breast cancer is detected in its early stages, and this remarkable progress is made possible by high community awareness and the support of our leadership.”
Collaborative Efforts to Promote Awareness
Dr. Aida Al Awadhi, Consultant Oncologist and Head of the Breast Cancer Working Group emphasized the importance of showcasing survivor stories to dispel misconceptions that cancer is a death sentence. She explained that events like these help patients and their families manage post-recovery challenges, including fears of recurrence and long-term side effects.
The event also aimed to foster open discussions among patients, survivors, and doctors to address psychological challenges and promote healthy lifestyles. Dr. Al Awadhi stressed the importance of psychological support in empowering patients to overcome their fears and contribute to awareness efforts for others.
Commitment to Innovation and Partnerships
Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences Middle East, expressed the company’s dedication to improving the lives of patients through partnerships: “Breast cancer is a difficult reality for many, making early detection crucial, as it can improve survival rates by up to 99% when diagnosed in its earliest stages. At Gilead, we are deeply committed to our patient-focused approach, working to improve the lives of those affected by devastating diseases through innovative treatments and meaningful partnerships with the communities we serve. We believe that by working together with the Emirates Oncology Society and the Emirates Breast Cancer Working Group we are stronger together in our mission to raise awareness and enhance education efforts. By empowering patients and healthcare providers, we can better address the challenges of breast cancer and make a significant impact on the future of oncology, ensuring a brighter future for those affected by this disease”.
Looking Ahead: Advancing Cancer Care
Oncology experts attending the event acknowledged the UAE’s exceptional progress in cancer treatment. They also called for increased local research to better understand the disease’s prevalence and causes, which would help develop targeted strategies to reduce cancer incidence and alleviate pressure on healthcare facilities.
The specialists concluded by emphasizing the significance of early diagnosis, family and community support, and healthy lifestyle habits in sustaining recovery. Attendees also discussed the growing importance of patient advocacy in raising awareness and fostering hope within the community.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Dr.Moza Al Sharhan, President of the Emirates Medical Association; Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of the Friends of Cancer Patients Association; and Marissa Pierre*, a renowned American psychotherapist and author.
This gathering served not only as a celebration of survivors but also as a platform for promoting awareness and encouraging collective efforts to overcome breast cancer, reinforcing the belief that together, we are stronger.
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