Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is taking part in the promotion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and launching a nationwide ‘Early Detection Saves Lives’ campaign. This initiative aims to educate women at risk of breast cancer, increasing their knowledge of the signs and symptoms and empowering them to take charge of their own breast health.
Dr Salha Bujassoum al-Bader, senior consultant at the National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), and director of the Breast Cancer Programme at HMC, said: “Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in Qatar and one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. As such, education, prevention and diagnostic services remain at the frontline of the battle against breast cancer.”
Dr Bujassoum pointed out that breast changes can show up on mammograms before the patient or doctor can feel a lump. “We therefore encourage women aged 45 and above to be screened appropriately for breast cancer, to stay physically active and eat a healthy diet.”
The campaign features a number of activities including a conference held in conjunction with Primary Health Care Corporation and Qatar Cancer Society. The conference is being held on October 29 and 30 at Sheraton Doha. It will bring leaders and healthcare professionals from around the world together to share their knowledge and expertise on breast cancer screening and the latest information about mammograms and early detection.
There will also be information booths in some of HMC’s hospitals including Al Wakra Hospital, Hamad General Hospital, The Cuban Hospital and the NCCCR. This initiative aims to inform patients and their families, visitors and staff about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and educate them about the importance of prevention and early detection in reducing the risk of breast cancer and saving lives.
A celebration event for the breast cancer team at HMC, also known as the ‘Pink Team’ is also planned to take place on October 31 at Bayt Al Dhiyafa at Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City to acknowledge the team’s efforts, reward teamwork, and recognise their contribution to HMC’s delivery of high quality care to patients.
Along with these activities, a social media campaign will run throughout the month to engage with the public by sharing information about breast cancer and providing support to those affected by the disease.
Other activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month include educational lectures, a workshop and a networking gathering with private companies and other governmental
organisations.