Dr. Khaled Al Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Cancer Control Society, affirmed that avoiding risk factors can contribute to preventing one third of cancer cases, emphasizing that prevention and awareness are essential pillars in reducing the incidence of cancer and saving lives.
This came during a workshop titled “The Impact of Awareness in Reducing the Suffering of Breast Cancer Patients and Promoting Early Detection and Quality of Life,” organized by the National Cancer Awareness Campaign “CAN” via Zoom, as part of its 15th year of breast cancer awareness initiatives. The workshop featured a select group of doctors and consultants and was moderated by Dr. Hessa Al Shaheen, a member of the campaign’s Board of Directors.
Al Saleh explained that avoiding four major risk factors can reduce cancer cases by 37%. He noted that smoking is responsible for 80% of lung cancer cases, while the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can reduce cervical cancer by approximately 90%, according to international studies.
He stressed the importance of prevention, correcting misconceptions and early detection, pointing out that recovery rates in the first stage can reach 100% in some cases, compared to 33% to 37% in advanced stages.
Al Saleh urged women over the age of 40 not to hesitate to undergo mammograms, particularly those with a family history of the disease. He explained that Kuwait recommends screening every two years.
Dr. Maha Al Sindi, Consultant Oncologist at the Bahrain Oncology Center, stated that approximately half of breast cancer patients in the Gulf are diagnosed at advanced stages, despite recovery rates exceeding 95% when the disease is detected early.
She noted that the average age of breast cancer diagnosis in the region is approximately 45 years, at least 10 years earlier than in Western countries.
Dr. Latifa Al Kandari, Head of the Diagnostic Radiology Department at Al Adan Hospital, revealed that the National Program for Early Detection of Breast Cancer conducted 46,225 examinations, resulting in the detection of 418 cancer cases. All cases were identified among women who had not displayed symptoms of the disease.
She explained that the program targets Kuwaiti women aged 40 to 69 who do not have symptoms, with appointments available through the “Sahl” and “Salem” applications. She emphasized that early detection aims to identify the disease before a palpable lump appears.
Psychological consultant Nadia Al Obaidi highlighted that the fear experienced by women following a cancer diagnosis extends beyond the disease itself, encompassing concerns about recovery, changes in appearance, and the impact of treatment on their lives, work and relationships.
She stressed that proper awareness, reliable information and the stories of survivors contribute to reducing anxiety and breaking the stigma associated with cancer.
Dr. Hessa Al Shaheen, the workshop moderator, emphasized that the high number of cases detected through the national screening program reflects the importance of early detection.
She pointed out that family support and psychological assistance contribute to recovery, while breast cancer survivors have become ambassadors for awareness by sharing their experiences and personal stories. She also highlighted the role of the “Makin” Center in preparing survivors for this important role.
