Kuwait University and KUNA Organize Dialogue Session on Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Kuwait City, October 14 (KUNA) -- The University of Kuwait, in collaboration with the National Campaign for Cancer Awareness (Kaan), organized today, Wednesday, Breast Cancer Awareness Day, which included a dialogue session and a health awareness exhibition. The event featured a select group of academics and health specialists, aiming to transform awareness from mere information into a daily behavior that protects women.

Dr. Hessa Al-Shahin, head of the Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative and a member of the board of directors of the Kaan campaign, stated in her address that breast cancer accounts for a high proportion of all cancer cases, reaching approximately 83.4 percent among Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti women, according to statistics from the Kuwait Cancer Center for 2022.

She added that the greatest success lies in detecting the disease during the first and second stages, which are characterized by high cure rates. She noted that treatment no longer evokes the previous fears, thanks to significant advances in technological sciences and surgery, making the process much easier than in the past.

Regarding support for survivors, Dr. Al-Shahin clarified that efforts extend beyond psychological support to include rehabilitating patients and survivors so they can serve as ambassadors for the National Campaign for Cancer Awareness. She pointed out that they have succeeded in this role, gaining the courage, boldness, and ease to speak openly about the disease, how to overcome it, and their current status.

She further indicated that several survivors undergo weekly psychological sessions at Mackin House, either individual sessions in certain initial cases or weekly group sessions. She noted that organizing recreational programs and trips to various locations serves as a direct means of awareness and primary psychological support. (End) M.N.M / A.N.D