Throughout October, Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) spearheaded a Breast Cancer awareness campaign themed "Early Detection is the Real Protection." The chosen slogan aimed to underscore the critical importance of identifying breast cancer in its early stages for enhanced treatment outcomes and the overall well-being of women.
The campaign focused on advocating the idea that routine screening plays a pivotal role in detecting breast cancer during its initial and more manageable phases, potentially saving lives. The National Screening Program declared the successful conclusion of its October campaign, which not only provided screening services but also emphasized public awareness through various initiatives.
The Breast Cancer Awareness campaign sought to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer while stressing the significance of regular screening. The comprehensive month-long effort encompassed diverse channels, including print, social media, public engagement activities such as lectures, and health awareness booths in collaboration with both governmental and private sectors.
Dr. Shaikha Abu Shaikha, director of the screening programs, highlighted a notable collaboration between PHCC and Al Shamal Water – Gulf Center for Foodstuff. As part of this collaboration, specially labeled pink water bottles, featuring the cancer screening call center number, were distributed across Qatar to raise awareness about breast cancer screening. Dr. Shaikha expressed gratitude to Gulf Center for Foodstuff for their support in spreading awareness.
Health awareness booths were strategically placed at various locations, including PHCC headquarters and multiple health centers. These booths also made appearances at external events organized by entities such as Qatar Foundation, WWRC, NCCCR, Qatar Women’s Sport Committee, and Al Wakrah hospital. Specialists at these booths educated visitors on the importance of breast cancer screening and registered women from the target population interested in undergoing screening.
The campaign included informative lectures on breast cancer and screening, with around 10 sessions presented to staff at companies and schools. Additionally, school nurses received training to deliver awareness sessions in 210 governmental schools across Qatar.
The October campaign yielded positive results, with a total of 963 women completing their mammograms and an additional 1865 women scheduled for upcoming screenings through the Screen for Life – Breast & Bowel screening Program.
Dr. Shaikha emphasized the life-saving impact of screening, stating that early detection through screening could lead to a breast cancer survival rate of up to 100%. She urged women between the ages of 45 to 69, without symptoms related to breast cancer, to contact the call center at 8001112 to schedule their routine screening appointments.
Across different health centers in Qatar, equipped with advanced technology mammograms and well-trained clinical staff, there are four dedicated suites located in Leabaib, Rawdat Al Khail, Muaither, and Al Wakra. Additionally, a newly opened clinic at Al Sadd health center specializes in providing bowel screening services.