Globally, 670 000 people died from breast cancer in 2022, with 2.3 million women receiving a diagnosis. Every nation on earth has females get breast cancer at any age after adolescence, while the incidence rises with age. According to a recent Lancet Commission research, breast cancer has become the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with an incidence rate expected to exceed three million cases and one million annual deaths by 2040.
Understanding breast cancer is essential for recognizing its signs, performing self-checks, and adhering to screening schedules. Early detection can greatly enhance treatment outcomes and survival rates. By educating themselves and others, individuals can contribute to catching the disease early, preventing its progression, and ultimately saving lives.
In the UAE, the Pink Caravan, under the Friends of Cancer Patients’ “Kashf” program, has become a key player in the fight against breast cancer. By running programs like Mobile Clinics, Pink October, and Pink Ride, it reaches out to communities, spreading knowledge about the importance of early screening. Its impact has gained both national and international recognition, setting a high standard for healthcare awareness efforts.
Launch of Pink Caravan Initiative
The Pink Caravan initiative, established in 2011 by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), is designed to tackle the lack of awareness and widespread misconceptions surrounding breast cancer in the UAE. Launched under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the campaign seeks to break the silence around breast cancer and educate the community on its risks and early signs. By promoting knowledge and encouraging regular screenings, Pink Caravan aims to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their health.
In addition to raising awareness, Pink Caravan provides timely support through free clinical breast exams, mammograms, and other essential services. This ensures that every person, regardless of their location or financial status, can access the resources needed for early detection and timely treatment. By bridging gaps in healthcare access, the initiative continues to play a significant role in improving cancer outcomes in the nation.
Impactful Campaign Achievements
Over the years, the Pink Caravan initiative has made an important mark on healthcare in the UAE. The Pink Caravan Ride, a key event in the initiative, wrapped up its 11th campaign last year with an impressive effort, providing over 13,000 free breast cancer screenings across the nation. During the week-long ride, 33 clinics were set up to handle walk-ins, making it easier for people to access early detection services. The campaign, titled “Powered by You,” inspired the community to take 8 million steps in solidarity, highlighting a united front in the fight against breast cancer.
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Last October, the Pink Caravan’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign further extended its reach. With 111 events held across the UAE, including public screenings, corporate wellness days, and awareness talks, the campaign engaged the community extensively. The media effort reached over 3 million people, boosting awareness significantly. Medical teams carried out 3,679 clinical breast exams and 515 mammograms, while also distributing 175 ultrasound and 543 mammogram vouchers. These activities not only encouraged a culture of openness but also highlighted the Pink Caravan’s role in supporting and empowering those affected by breast cancer in the UAE.
Pink Caravan Medical Mammography Mobile Clinic
Since it began in 2018, the Pink Caravan Medical Mammography Clinic has made a significant difference in breast and cervical cancer awareness and early detection across the UAE. As the first mobile mammography unit in the country, it’s equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools and has been crucial in bringing free cancer screenings directly to communities in all seven emirates. This initiative by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) ensures that essential services are accessible, helping with early detection and treatment.
The mobile clinic has reached thousands of people, offering free screenings such as mammograms, ultrasounds, and pap smears. Pap smear testing is especially important because cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women in the UAE, is often discovered too late. By providing these services, the clinic fills a critical gap in healthcare, particularly in remote or underserved areas where access to such screenings is limited.
Beyond screenings, the clinic also plays an important educational role. It hosts awareness lectures, demonstrates self-examination techniques, and distributes informative materials. This comprehensive approach has increased understanding of early detection and its impact on survival rates. However, the clinic relies on community support to function. Its operations are funded entirely by donations, and its continued success and expansion depend on the generosity of the UAE community.
Pink Caravan Ride
From its beginnings in 2011, the Pink Caravan Ride (PCR) has made a significant impact on breast cancer awareness, early detection, and treatment in the UAE. Having screened over 100,727 people, including both women and men, the initiative has performed more than 23,506 mammograms and 3,775 ultrasounds. This extensive outreach has resulted in the detection of 117 breast cancer cases among women and one case in a male patient. By addressing the stigma surrounding breast cancer and highlighting the importance of regular screenings, PCR has been instrumental in changing attitudes and improving early detection.
Traveling 1,800 kilometers across all seven emirates, the Pink Caravan Ride has brought breast cancer screenings to even the most remote areas. A key development came in 2015 with the launch of a mobile mammography clinic. This mobile unit has enabled PCR to extend its reach to underserved communities, ensuring that essential services are available to a broader audience.
The Pink Caravan initiative, established in 2011 by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), is designed to tackle the lack of awareness and widespread misconceptions surrounding breast cancer in the UAE.
In 2016, PCR collaborated with the University Hospital in Sharjah and Gustave Roussy, a leading European cancer research institute, to establish the Sharjah Breast Care Centre. This state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive treatment and introduces genetic testing in 2019 for personalized care. The campaign has grown into a major annual event, with over 20,000 individuals screened in 2023 alone. Its continuous efforts have saved lives and encouraged proactive health management throughout the UAE, cementing the Pink Caravan Ride’s role as a crucial force in breast cancer awareness and prevention.
Widening Reach and Influence
This year, the Pink Caravan Ride aims to advance its mission with several key strategies. One major focus is the expansion of the Medical Mobile Clinic’s reach, allowing for greater access to essential breast and cervical cancer screenings in more areas across the UAE. This effort shows the campaign’s dedication to ensuring that early detection services are available to a broader segment of the population, especially those in remote or underserved regions.
Alongside the mobile clinic’s expansion, the Pink Caravan will carry on its tradition of raising awareness through its annual events. The Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in October remains at the heart of their outreach, highlighting the importance of early detection and regular screenings. Additionally, there is a renewed focus on building stronger partnerships with local communities and organizations to amplify the campaign’s impact. By working closely with these partners, the Pink Caravan hopes to increase its visibility, drive greater community engagement, and continue to build on past achievements to further improve breast cancer awareness and prevention across the nation.
