KAC: 30% Increase in Early Detection Saves 120 Women Annually

Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Campaign for Cancer Awareness (KANE), affirmed that a 30% increase in early detection rates for breast cancer, after nearly two decades of the campaign’s efforts, contributes to saving more than 120 women annually in Kuwait. He emphasized that awareness serves as a fundamental pillar in preventing the disease and detecting it in its early stages.

This statement was made during the “Your Day is Pink” event, held at the Day of the Sea Heritage Village as part of the breast cancer awareness campaign, under the slogan “Your Awareness is the Pink Safety Belt.” The event received golden sponsorship from Al-Mulla Group and Bin Omair Company, in collaboration with the Media Office of the Ministry of Health, the Day of the Sea Heritage Village under the Ministry of Information, and the Patients’ Aid Fund Association.

Dr. Al-Saleh noted that the campaign has achieved tangible successes, considering its impact on prevention and early detection no less important than the role of treatment. He explained that saving 120 women annually means protecting 120 families, along with their surrounding communities.

He added that the campaign’s core message focuses on disease prevention and early detection, stressing the importance of women knowing self-examination methods and risk factors, adhering to appropriate periodic screenings based on their age and health status, and consulting a doctor upon noticing any abnormal changes.

He pointed out that awareness messages extend beyond breast cancer to promote a healthy lifestyle, including consuming vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, reducing sugar and highly processed foods, engaging in regular walking, quitting smoking, and prioritizing sleep. He noted that these habits help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and certain types of cancer, without offering absolute protection.

Clarifying that hosting the event at the Day of the Sea Heritage Village reflects the importance of delivering health messages in gathering places and linking them to national identity and heritage, Dr. Al-Saleh affirmed that the success of awareness campaigns is measured by their contribution to changing the behavior of individuals and families.

For her part, Dr. Hessa Majid Al-Shahin, head of the breast cancer awareness initiative, stressed the necessity for women not to delay attending to their health. She noted that some women postpone screening due to family and work responsibilities, fear of results, or the belief that the absence of symptoms means no health problem exists.

She emphasized that early detection increases the chances of successful treatment, explaining that the slogan “Your Awareness is the Pink Safety Belt” encourages women to take the initiative in screening and seeking reassurance. She added that caring for one’s health is not a luxury, but a right and a responsibility toward oneself and one’s family.

Dr. Al-Shahin highlighted the importance of providing specialized care for patients, with family and society standing by their side, while respecting their privacy and avoiding blaming the patient. She affirmed that survivors possess experiences and capabilities that can enrich society, and deserve support and empowerment.

She called for continuing breast cancer awareness throughout the year, rather than confining it to October, to ensure that health messages reach women of all ages and backgrounds.