Qatar Cancer Society Marks World Cancer Day

Doha, Qatar: Qatar Cancer Society (QCS), in collaboration with Student Activity Department - Qatar University (QU) marked World Cancer Day on February 4, under this year's theme being“United and Unique.”

This theme underscores the commitment of individuals and communities to fighting cancer and minimising its impact through awareness and prevention.

The event featured a comprehensive programme aimed at enhancing knowledge and understanding of cancer. The opening session was led by sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Cancer Society, who emphasised the importance of raising awareness and engaging the community in the fight against cancer. He also stressed the critical role of early diagnosis and prevention in reducing the number of cancer cases. Sheikh Dr. Thani also commended Qatar University's ongoing support of the Qatar Cancer Society's programmes, recognising its active role in collaborating to achieve the society's vision. He noted that this partnership reflects a shared commitment to increasing cancer awareness, promoting early detection, and correcting misconceptions about the disease.

Regarding the latest cancer statistics in Qatar, he shared:“According to the Qatar National Cancer Registry from the Ministry of Public Health, a total of 2,042 new cancer cases were diagnosed in 2020. The five most diagnosed cancers, in order, were breast cancer, colon cancer, thyroid cancer, leukemia, and prostate cancer.” Abdulla Hamid Almulla, Director of Student Activities at Qatar University, said“ We, at the Student Activities Department, are pleased to organise the World Cancer Day event as part of our efforts to promote health awareness among students and the university community. This event represents an important opportunity to spread health education and highlight the significance of prevention and early detection of cancer, which are crucial factors in reducing incidence rates and improving treatment.

The event included a panel discussion with experts in the field, featuring: Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Program Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Zumin Shi, Professor of Human Nutrition at the College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Dr. Rayana Ahmad Bou Haka – WHO Representative, Margaret Eki Osifo – Cancer Survivor. The session was moderated by Heba Nassar, Head of the Community Health Awareness Department at the Qatar Cancer Society.

The Qatar Cancer Society's awareness competition winners were announced during the event. The competition, aimed at students from schools and universities across Qatar, focused on raising awareness about cancer prevention and the importance of early detection.

In the University Category Redab Eltahir from Qatar University won the first place and Basil Ahmed from Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar won the second place.

In the School Category the first place was secured by Philippine School, second place by Beverly Hills International School, and the third place was shared by MES Indian School and Podar Pearl School.

The event also featured a health exhibition that highlighted the latest resources and information available for cancer prevention, including early screening and the promotion of healthy habits.

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