SALALAH: The 'Early Breast Cancer Screen Campaign' in Dhofar Governorate was launched at Al Saada Health Centre on July 6 and concludes on August 30, 2024.
The cancer screening campaign embodies a critical public health endeavour aimed at fostering awareness and encouraging early detection of breast cancer among women. Operating from Sunday to Friday between 5 pm and 10 pm, the campaign ensures accessibility for working women and those with daytime commitments, thus amplifying its potential impact.
Breast cancer, a pervasive and often lethal disease, poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. However, the survival rate improves dramatically when the disease is detected in its early stages. This campaign leverages mobile mammography units, a pivotal tool in early breast cancer detection. These units, equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology, provide accurate and swift diagnostics, thereby facilitating timely medical intervention.
Speaking to the Observer, Salim bin Awad al Najar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Omani Cancer Society in Dhofar Governorate, said: "We confirm that the screening vehicle is still operational, and its crew continues to work daily to receive anyone who wishes to undergo testing and screening until August 30. The screening is free for Omanis and foreigners."
Operating previously out of the Wilayat of Shaleem and Al Halaniyat Islands, the campaign also featured specialised lectures on cancer, along with workshops to raise health awareness and educate women on self-examination. There were also presentations about the association, its role and activities.
The campaign also saw significant engagement from the Office of the Wali of Shaleem and Al Halaniyat Islands as well as from the Shaleem Hospital and the Omani Women’s Association, which played a crucial role in the campaign.
"We moved to the Wilayat of Thamrait on June 27 and stayed until July 4. The vehicle had a full team to receive women, provide all necessary guidance and collect information from those who came for screening. Last year, the vehicle was in Salalah and Taqah, where 375 cases were recorded, with approximately 20 cases referred to the hospital for further examination and additional tests," Al Najar said.
"We hope everyone understands the importance of early detection, which can prevent many risks and aid in recovery if the disease is in its early stages, sparing patients from much suffering. Financially, early detection may save around RO 8,000 in the early stages, whereas the cost of treatment in advanced stages could reach up to RO 200,000," he added.
The success of this campaign is anchored in the collective effort of various stakeholders. The initiative is supported by a coalition of sponsors, including prominent organisations and governmental bodies, which underscores the collaborative spirit essential for such public health endeavours.
A notable feature of this campaign is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. By setting up the screening at Al Saada Health Centre and operating during convenient hours, the initiative ensures that a broad demographic can benefit from these services. This approach is particularly significant in regions where access to healthcare facilities can be limited due to various socio-economic factors.
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