Al Ain, October 24: More and more youngsters in the UAE are affected by breast cancer, while it generally occurs after the age of 50 among people in many other countries, said Dr Shamsa Al Awar, chairperson of Tawam Hospital’s breast cancer awareness programme.
She said this as over 2,000 men and women along with their children joined the third Pink Walkathon of Tawam Hospital here on Friday.
The walkathon was 5km for adults and 1km for children and was organised by the hospital in association with the Al Ain Municipality, police and Ettihad Airways.
According to Dr Al Awar, early detection of breast cancer is the only way to cure it. “The fact that people as young as 20 are getting breast cancer is a major concern in the country. People should not feel shy about it. If they find any symptom of breast cancer, they should immediately consult a doctor and get proper medication,” she said.
Talking to Khaleej Times, Dr Al Awar said, “Over 200 breast cancer patients are being treated in Tawam Hospital. Around 20 new cases of breast cancer were found in Abu Dhabi emirate by the mobile van units run under the hospital’s breast cancer screening programme.
“Women should avoid smoking and drinking and should not get into stress. They should eat healthy foods and regularly examine their breasts for symptoms of cancer.”
Painting and drawing stalls were put up at the park, which attracted a large number of youth and children. The children who took part in the walkathon were awarded certificates.
In the evening, a short film on breast cancer was screened, and song and dance performances were held at Al Towayya Park. Families with children gathered at the park with ample food to enjoy the event. South African Julie Irving, who lives in Al Ain, came with all her family members. “It is really good to take part in this walkathon which gives us lots of information about breast cancer. This is very positive move. Everybody should participate in it,” she said.
Laila, an Arab woman, said, “I enjoyed being a part of it and gained lots of information about breast cancer.”
–Agencies