Recovery rates exceed 85 percent with early breast cancer diagnosis
Gulf cooperation in cancer awareness is delivering tangible results, as recovery rates rise sharply across Kuwait and the region. Officials credit early detection, reduced stigma, and sustained awareness campaigns, highlighted during Gulf Week, for transforming outcomes and strengthening prevention efforts.
Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), announced that Kuwait has seen a 40 % increase in cancer recovery rates over the past decade, reflecting significant progress in early detection and public awareness.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 11th Joint Gulf Week – “United by Our Excellence” on Wednesday, Dr. Al-Saleh highlighted that this improvement underscores the growing health awareness among the public and their willingness to seek medical attention at earlier stages of the disease, reports Al-Qabas daily.
Early diagnosis, he explained, is a key factor in boosting recovery outcomes.
He noted that in the past, most breast cancer patients presented to hospitals in advanced stages (three and four), but today the majority come in the first or second stage, resulting in recovery rates exceeding 85 %. This, he said, is a direct reflection of the success of awareness programs implemented by public benefit associations and health ministries across the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Dr. Al-Saleh further emphasized that since its inception, the campaign has achieved many positive milestones, including a significant rise in health awareness about cancer in Gulf communities.
A study conducted by the National Cancer Awareness Campaign revealed that cancer awareness in Kuwaiti society has increased by 30 %, and more people now view cancer as a manageable chronic condition rather than something to fear.
Dr. Hessa Al-Shaheen, Chairperson of the Executive Committee for the 11th Gulf Week, said the event coincided with the Regional Oncology Conference and featured over 45 initiatives and activities, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and lectures conducted by participating associations.
She described the high level of participation as a source of positive energy that will help sustain and expand efforts in future years. Dr. Al-Shaheen also noted that many associations have integrated awareness and prevention into their programs, further enhancing early detection efforts and the overall impact of this distinctive Gulf Week.
Dr. Al-Shaheen expressed her gratitude to all who supported, contributed to, and attended the activities, especially the boards of directors of the participating associations, who mobilized their resources to promote prevention and awareness among all segments of Gulf society.
