FOCP Achieves Record 16,511 Breast Cancer Screenings In Pink Caravan Campaign Across UAE

The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) recently wrapped up their "Pink Caravan" initiative, achieving significant milestones in breast cancer awareness. This year, 16,511 screenings were conducted across the nation, exceeding previous years' participation and reach. The campaign highlighted the importance of early detection and regular check-ups to combat breast cancer.

Operating through eight fixed clinics and over 111 mobile units, the campaign offered free screenings, mammograms, and ultrasounds to people of all ages and nationalities. These efforts aimed to emphasise the critical role of early detection in fighting breast cancer.

In addition to medical services, the campaign included various activities such as workshops and educational events. These were designed to engage individuals and families while providing essential medical and psychological support to patients and their families.

This year's campaign saw extensive participation from medical centres across the UAE. Fixed locations included Crescent Petroleum in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Abu Dhabi, Al Marwan Group in Sharjah, and AstraZeneca in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Dubai's City Walk also served as a central hub for screenings.

The medical sponsors for this initiative were Sharjah University Hospital, Advanced Care Medical Centre, Saqr Hospital under Emirates Medical Services, Healthpoint Hospital, Emirates Hospitals, and Clemenceau Medical Centre. Their support was crucial in facilitating widespread access to screenings.

FOCP also organised a community awareness event in Aljada over three days. Sponsored by Crescent Petroleum, Sharjah Media City (Shams), Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Arada, Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), FAST Building Contracting Co., and MSD, this event aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer.

Campaign Impact

The event encouraged women, girls, and men to undergo early detection screenings while promoting social cohesion among diverse groups. Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, remarked on the campaign's success: "The record number of screenings during Pink Caravan is a testament to the community's increasing awareness of the life-saving power of early breast cancer detection."

She praised the unwavering support from medical institutions nationwide and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the campaign's success. Al Mulla stressed that while progress has been made against breast cancer, efforts will continue each year with greater reach and impact.

With inputs from WAM