Makin Club launches Kuwaiti lentil dish competition in support of cancer patients and survivors

The Makin Club, affiliated with the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), has announced the launch of a competition for the best traditional Kuwaiti lentil dish, dedicated to cancer patients and survivors. The initiative forms part of the club’s community programs aimed at promoting nutritional awareness and supporting public health.

The competition will take place on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Heritage Sea Day Village, starting at 3:00 pm, in an environment that blends health awareness with Kuwaiti cultural heritage.

The initiative seeks to highlight the importance of healthy nutrition as a supportive element in the treatment and recovery journey of cancer patients, while showcasing traditional Kuwaiti cuisine prepared in a healthy and safe manner. Cancer patients and survivors wishing to participate can register by contacting 65072072, with incentive prizes allocated for outstanding entries.

Yellow lentils were selected as the focus ingredient due to their high nutritional value. They are rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.

They also contain iron and folate, essential for red blood cell production and anemia prevention, in addition to supporting heart health and regulating energy levels—making them a suitable dietary option for cancer patients and survivors within a balanced diet.

The event program includes the preparation of a traditional dish by Chef Munira Al-Hai, a competition for the best Kuwaiti lentil dish, presentations featuring yellow lentils or Kuwaiti bread and machboos, an introduction to the dish’s nutritional benefits, evaluation by a specialized committee, honoring of winners and participants, a heritage quiz, and an awareness exhibition organized by the Makin Club.

In this context, Dr. Iman Al-Shammari, Secretary of the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) and Head of the Makin Club Committee, emphasized the importance of integrating health awareness with proper nutrition, given their vital role in improving the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors.

She noted that the competition aims to deliver a powerful awareness message by combining healthy food choices with cultural heritage, adding that such initiatives promote positive psychological and social support while encouraging healthier lifestyles.

She also pointed to scientific studies linking certain cancers to dietary patterns. Excessive consumption of saturated fats, processed meats, and fried foods has been associated with increased colon cancer risk.

According to 2020 statistics from the Kuwait Cancer Control Center, colon cancer cases in Kuwait reached 289, including 169 Kuwaitis and 120 non-Kuwaitis. Colon cancer remains the most common cancer among males and the second most common among females after breast cancer.

Dietary habits also influence the risk of stomach cancer, while obesity and high intake of refined sugars may raise the likelihood of breast, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Conversely, consuming vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle contributes significantly to prevention and recovery.

The event marks the conclusion of the Makin Club’s 2025 season of activities, which featured a series of health and community initiatives aimed at supporting cancer patients and survivors and promoting a culture of prevention and healthy living—reflecting the club’s continued humanitarian commitment and active role in serving the community.