Physical therapy key to disease prevention and mental wellness: CAN chief
In a press statement marking the conclusion of the 2025 Summer Olympiad, held from August 5 in collaboration with the Public Authority for Sports under the slogan 'Sport is Prevention,' Dr. Al-Saleh said that physical therapy contributes significantly to disease prevention, improved mobility and physical function, and better mental health.
Citing World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, Dr. Al-Saleh pointed out that over 2.4 billion people globally are in need of some form of rehabilitation services. This, he noted, underscores the importance of equitable and early access to such services within healthcare systems. He further stressed the need to integrate both sports and physiotherapy into national prevention and recovery programs.
'Between 60 and 90 percent of cancer patients experience physical and psychological side effects, many of which can be alleviated through physiotherapy and rehabilitation,' Dr. Al-Saleh said. 'Additionally, studies indicate that around 43 percent of patients require direct physiotherapy services.'
Dr. Eman Al-Shammari, Secretary of the CAN campaign, also spoke on the success of the Olympiad. She noted the participation of sports and community teams of all ages and said that this year's edition placed strong emphasis on the role of physical activity in disease prevention. The event featured a range of sports activities alongside educational and awareness sessions.
The closing ceremony included a lecture by physiotherapist Dr. Hamad Al-Kandari on the importance of physiotherapy for athletes. It also featured the recognition of winning teams, outstanding participants, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters of the Olympiad.
Dr. Al-Shammari also commended the efforts of the Haidokan team for their exemplary performance and organization during the tournament. She encouraged continued commitment to regular physical activity as a key to maintaining good health.
Olympiad Director Abdullah Al-Saleh extended his gratitude to all participants and praised the support of CAN and its partner organizations. He emphasized the Olympiad's success in promoting awareness about the strong link between physical activity and the prevention of chronic diseases, especially cancer.
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