CAN highlights importance of early cancer detection
KUWAIT: Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, board member of the Cancer Awareness Nation (CAN) campaign and a member of the Haidu CAN team, underscored the vital role of early detection in increasing cancer recovery rates and the importance of lifestyle changes in reducing disease incidence. She emphasized that adopting a fiber-rich diet, exercising regularly, abstaining from smoking and alcohol and undergoing periodic screenings—especially for individuals over the age of 45 or with a family history of cancer—are key preventive measures.
Dr Al-Shaheen noted that, according to the latest official statistics, Kuwait recorded a total of 2,775 cancer cases, including 1,478 among Kuwaitis and 1,297 among non-Kuwaitis. Her remarks came on the sidelines of a friendly basketball match jointly organized by the CAN campaign and Makin Club for cancer survivors, held as part of the colon cancer awareness initiative under the slogan 'Your Health is Your Decision.'
She praised the collaboration between CAN and Makin Club, highlighting the significance of engaging cancer survivors in awareness efforts and community activities. The match brought together a team of female survivors and a group of supportive volunteers at the Girls' Sports Club, symbolizing resilience and recovery. The spirited game concluded with the survivor team clinching victory with a score of 21-18. The event was officiated by referees from the Kuwait Basketball Federation and took place in a warm atmosphere of pride and encouragement.
Dr Hussa Al-Shaheen
Participants take a group photo during the Cancer Awareness Nation campaign.
Psychologist Nadia Al-Obaidi, a member of Makin Club, emphasized the importance of psychological support for cancer survivors. 'Through group therapy sessions, I have observed that family attitudes and the surrounding environment significantly affect patients. Positive support can empower survivors, while negative reactions may hinder their recovery. This underscores the crucial role of mental health professionals in the recovery journey,' she stated.
Dr Zeinab Al-Musailikh, President of the Kuwait Soroptimist Society for Community Development, highlighted the Society's participation in the CAN campaign for the second consecutive year. She affirmed the Society's commitment to promoting early detection, supporting survivors, and advancing women's empowerment across sectors including health, education, and the economy.
The winning team was honored in the presence of Samia Al-Mukaimi, Vice Chairperson of the Girls' Sports Club, amid applause and appreciation from attendees. The audience lauded the event's powerful message of hope and solidarity, emphasizing that such initiatives not only raise awareness but also foster unity and support among survivors and the broader community. CAN officials affirmed their continued dedication to organizing initiatives that promote cancer awareness and inspire hope in the hearts of those affected.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- Kuwait Times
Makin Club organizes ‘Renewed Spirit' trip for cancer survivors
KUWAIT: In a humanitarian initiative aimed at boosting self-confidence and offering psychological and social support to cancer patients, the Makin Club, affiliated with the National Campaign for Cancer Awareness (CAN), organized a recreational trip to the Al-Khairan area on Monday, June 2, 2025, under the theme 'Renewed Spirit.' In her remarks, Dr Eman Al-Shammari, head of the Makin Club Committee, emphasized that the club's strategy focuses on empowering cancer survivors through recreational and social activities that uplift morale and strengthen their sense of belonging and self-worth. She noted that in 2020, Kuwait recorded 2,775 new cancer cases, of which approximately 1,665 patients had high survival rates. 'These individuals, known as survivors, are capable of playing a vital role in supporting newly diagnosed patients at the beginning of their treatment journey,' she said, highlighting that psychological support remains a cornerstone of recovery. As part of the program, Dr Nadia Al-Mahmoud led a lively Q&A session in a warm atmosphere that encouraged open dialogue and strengthened social bonds. The event concluded with the distribution of gifts to recovering women - an appreciative and symbolic gesture that lifted spirits and brought joy to all participants. Psychologist Nadia Al-Obaidi also took part in the event, delivering a heartfelt speech on the importance of mental health in the recovery journey. She stressed the need to create a safe and supportive environment that allows recovering patients to express themselves freely and overcome the emotional challenges that may follow treatment. Aisha Al-Qattan, a Makin Club member, expressed pride in being part of this meaningful initiative. 'We saw smiles light up the faces of survivors and felt a powerful energy of hope throughout the day. These trips go beyond entertainment - they are acts of love, support, and a belief in every woman's strength to rise above the odds,' she said. Participants warmly welcomed the initiative, sharing their appreciation for the positive energy, joy, and renewed sense of inclusion it brought into their lives. The Makin Club extended special thanks to Minister of Social Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah for sponsoring the club's launch, and to Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi for his continued support of the National Cancer Control Campaign's activities. This event is part of a series of initiatives organized by the Makin Club, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to provide psychological and social support to cancer patients and to improve their quality of life during and after treatment. The club also called on recovering individuals to reach out, benefit from its programs, and consider joining efforts to support new patients - promoting the spirit of solidarity that is deeply rooted in Kuwaiti society.
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- Kuwait Times
Rare views of Al-Hala Island documented by Kuwaiti photographer
KUWAIT: Kuwaiti environmentalist and photographer Dr Abdullah Al-Zaidan has successfully observed and documented the rare natural phenomenon of Al-Hala Island, located in the southern part of Kuwaiti waters, specifically in the Al-Zour area. The island is a stunning and unusual natural feature. Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Tuesday, Al-Zaidan explained that Al-Hala is a temporary sandbar that emerges during low tide and completely disappears during high tide. Its unique nature makes it a favored destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. He added that the island's transformation is a key attraction, making it a prime spot for environmental marine tourism. Visitors are drawn to this nontraditional experience amid the clear waters of the Gulf, where they can engage with untouched nature far from pollution and urban development. Al-Hala Island Fish swim near the coral reefs in the waters surrounding Al-Hala Island. An endangered green turtle swims underwater at the island. Al-Zaidan emphasized that visiting Al-Hala Island helps raise environmental awareness and promotes sustainable tourism, which balances enjoyment with the preservation of natural ecosystems. Regarding the surrounding area, he noted that the Al-Zour coastline is ecologically significant due to minimal human activity and construction, making it a vital habitat. It hosts endangered green turtles, which come to nest and lay eggs during specific seasons, and it is home to vibrant coral reefs essential to marine biodiversity. The area also serves as a resting site for migratory and resident seabirds, which use the island as a natural stopover along the coast. Dr Al-Zaidan concluded by stressing the importance of protecting these fragile marine areas and encouraging mindful visits to help preserve marine life and ensure ecological balance for future generations. — KUNA
Arab Times
2 days ago
- Arab Times
‘Eid prayer does not exempt people from Friday prayers'
KUWAIT CITY, June 4: The Assistant Undersecretary for the Fatwa and Sharia Research Sector at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has clarified the religious opinion regarding the Friday (Jumu'ah) prayer when Eid coincides with a Friday, reports Al-Seyassah daily. In an official statement, he explained that, according to the majority of Islamic jurists, performing the Eid prayer does not exempt Muslims from the obligation of attending the Friday prayer. The Friday prayer must still be performed at its designated time. Some jurists hold the view that those who have already performed the Eid prayer may forgo the Friday prayer and instead perform the regular Dhuhr prayer, based on reports that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did the same. If a person serves as an imam, he must lead the Friday prayer for those who attend the mosque. The Fatwa and Sharia Research Sector confirmed in a statement that the matter allows for flexibility, and both options are considered valid. Those who prefer ease may suffice with the Eid prayer and perform Dhuhr instead of Jumu'ah, while those who choose to observe both the Eid and Friday prayers out of caution are also acting correctly. Meanwhile, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Dr. Bader Al-Mutairi announced that all 8,000 Kuwaiti pilgrims, organized into 60 groups, have safely arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reports Al-Seyassah daily. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that mission teams from various participating agencies are working tirelessly at the holy sites to ensure the highest levels of comfort, safety, and care for Kuwaiti pilgrims. He stated that preparations at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah were completed well in advance, which reflects the mission's dedication to providing an organized and secure environment. Dr. Al-Mutairi urged all Kuwaiti pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions issued by the official Saudi authorities.
