Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), emphasized the vital role of integrating physiotherapy programs into public health awareness initiatives, describing it as a key factor in improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
Speaking at the conclusion of the 2025 Summer Olympics — held since July 5 in cooperation with the Public Authority for Sports under the slogan ‘Sports is Prevention’ — Al-Saleh explained that the inclusion of physiotherapy supports disease prevention, improves mobility and physical function, and boosts mental health, reports Al-Rai daily.
He noted that, according to World Health Organization statistics, over 2.4 billion people worldwide require some form of rehabilitation services, underscoring the need to provide such care fairly and early within healthcare systems.
For cancer patients, he said, global data shows that between 60% and 90% suffer from physical and psychological side effects that can be improved through rehabilitation and physical therapy, with about 43% requiring direct physical therapy services.
In a related statement, CAN Secretary Dr. Iman Al-Shammari said that this year’s Olympics saw participation from sports and community teams of all ages, with a strong focus on sports as a preventive measure against disease. The event featured diverse sporting activities alongside health awareness programs.
The closing ceremony included a lecture on the importance of physical therapy for athletes, delivered by specialist Dr. Hamad Al-Kandari, and concluded with honors for winning teams, standout participants, volunteers, and sponsors.
Al-Shammari commended the Haidokan team for their role in the tournament and urged the public to make regular exercise part of their daily routine for better health.
Olympics Director Abdullah Al-Saleh expressed his gratitude to all participants and highlighted CAN’s significant support and partnerships, which contributed to the success of the event and reinforced the connection between physical activity and the prevention of chronic illnesses, particularly cancer.
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