CAN stresses awareness and early detection in breast cancer fight

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 7, 2026

The National Cancer Awareness Campaign held an event in Kuwait City emphasizing early detection and health education to combat breast cancer, with experts highlighting that nearly half of all new female cancer cases in Kuwait are breast cancer. The campaign aims to increase regular screenings and lifestyle changes, as early diagnosis can lead to a recovery rate exceeding 90 percent, while also promoting social inclusion and community support.

Kuwait City — The National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) emphasized the importance of health education and early detection in combating breast cancer during an event held Sunday at the Kuwait Association for the Blind’s theater. Dr. Hessa Majid Al-Shahin, CAN Board Member and Head of the Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative, highlighted the role of media in disseminating accurate health information to all segments of society as part of a broader effort to promote prevention and timely diagnosis.

“Health awareness is not directed at one group over another, but is a message for everyone,” Al-Shahin said in her remarks. She underlined the need for cooperation among institutions, families, society, and media outlets to effectively convey health messages in accessible ways, aiming to turn awareness into proactive behavior.

During the event, which coincided with the campaign’s 2026 edition under the slogan “Your Awareness Is Your Pink Seatbelt,” Dr. Al-Shahin presented recent statistics illustrating the prevalence of breast cancer in Kuwait. According to official figures, 823 new breast cancer cases were registered in 2022 among both Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti women, representing nearly half (49.7%) of all new female cancer diagnoses in the country. She stressed that these numbers underscore the critical importance of early detection, which can markedly improve treatment outcomes.

The campaign encourages women to undergo regular screening and remain vigilant about bodily changes, with Dr. Najla Al-Sayed providing an educational session on risk factors and symptom awareness. Al-Sayed noted that breast cancer has a recovery rate exceeding 90 percent when detected early. She recommended screening intervals of once every three years for women under 30 and annual exams for those over 40. She also stressed lifestyle factors such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding obesity and smoking, and exercising regularly to help reduce cancer risks.

The event integrated several awareness components, including an awards ceremony recognizing members of the Kuwait Association for the Blind who participated in a women’s table tennis tournament. Dr. Al-Shahin lauded the association, chaired by Fayez Lafi Al-Azmi, for hosting the event and promoting inclusion by encouraging disabled individuals to engage in sports and community activities. A theatrical performance and educational skits focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, family and community support, and the psychological aspects of facing disease, aiming to foster resilience and hope among patients.

Abdulaziz Hamad Al-Azmi, Chairman of the Cultural Committee at the Kuwait Association for the Blind, reaffirmed the ongoing partnership with CAN and expressed wishes for the swift recovery of all cancer patients. The event concluded with interactive sessions and prize distributions supported by corporate sponsors, reinforcing the campaign’s commitment to building a more health-conscious society across Kuwait.

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