Latest news with #NationalCancerAwarenessCampaign
Kuwait Times
10-08-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
CAN Olympics end with focus on physical therapy, awareness
KUWAIT: The 'CAN 2025' Olympics, a month-and-a-half-long youth sports event, concluded with a powerful message on the role of sports and physical therapy in disease prevention and recovery, especially cancer. Organized by the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), the event combined athletic competition with health awareness, drawing large crowds and active engagement from diverse groups. Dr Khaled Ahmed Al-Saleh, oncology consultant and chairman of CAN, highlighted the importance of using youth gatherings for spreading health messages. This year's Olympics focused on how sports help prevent diseases and support rehabilitation. Among the event's highlights was a lecture by senior physical therapist Dr Hamad Al-Kandari on the importance of physical therapy for athletes and patients alike. Dr Al-Saleh emphasized physical rehabilitation as a vital part of cancer recovery. Citing the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Al-Saleh explained that rehabilitation—including physical therapy—contributes to reducing the functional impact of chronic diseases, such as cancer, and enhances the patient's ability to regain mobility and independence in daily life. He also pointed out that more than 2.4 billion people worldwide need some form of rehabilitation services, emphasizing the importance of integrating sports and physical therapy into prevention and recovery programs. Abdallah Al-Saleh Dr Iman Al-Shimmari The campaign pointed to global data showing that 60 to 90 percent of cancer patients suffer from physical and psychological side effects that rehabilitation can improve. Studies also show that about 43 percent of patients need physical therapy services. However, nearly 40 percent of those needing physical therapy do not receive it, highlighting a clear gap in rehabilitation care. The closing ceremony celebrated winners, distinguished participants, volunteers, sponsors, and media partners who helped spread the campaign's message. Dr Iman Al-Shammari, campaign secretary, praised the organizing Haido-CAN team, led by Abdullah Khalid Al-Saleh, director of the2025 Haido-CAN Olympics. She encouraged everyone to adopt regular sports practice to maintain a healthy body. Director Abdullah Khalid Al-Saleh expressed gratitude to participants and supporters, emphasizing the event's innovative approach to combining sports with awareness. He added that such initiatives open doors of hope for patients and survivors and promote a culture of prevention in Kuwaiti society. The Australian team won first place, followed by the Greek team in second place. The Japanese team won third place. Captain Saad Al-Houti's presence and interaction with players provided added inspiration, with many athletes regarding him as a sports role model.
Kuwait Times
11-07-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
Sport as prevention: Haidu‑CAN Olympic Tournament begins
KUWAIT: The National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) launched the Haidu‑CAN Olympic Sports Tournament Wednesday evening at Hatrick Stadium in Khaitan. Youth teams from across the country are taking part in this event, which aims to promote healthy lifestyles and highlight the role of sport in disease prevention—particularly cancer. Dr Hessa Majid Al‑Shaheen, a member of CAN's board of directors, explained that the tournament offers an 'unconventional' path to health education by blending competitive sports with practical prevention messages. 'Sport is not a luxury,' she said, 'but an effective means of prevention—and a gateway to a healthier, more informed society.' According to Al‑Shaheen, medical research shows that at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity can reduce the risk of certain cancers—such as colon and breast—by up to 30–40 percent. Regular exercise also plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, while boosting mental health and alleviating stress and anxiety. KUWAIT: (From left) Dr Sanaa Al-Asfour, Dr Iman Al-Shimmari, Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, Saad Al-Houti, and Abdullah Al-Saleh are seen at the launch of the Haidu‑CAN Olympic Sports Tournament. The Haidu‑CAN initiative aims to sustain young people's engagement in sports through interactive activities that pair athletic competition with awareness workshops. In addition to tournament matches, the program features educational sessions and support initiatives for cancer survivors. Abdullah Al‑Saleh, Director of the Haidu‑CAN Olympics, described the event as 'a unique model' that moves beyond traditional awareness campaigns. 'We're delivering health messages in a way that resonates with youth—through experience and participation rather than indoctrination,' he said. This tournament is one of several activities organized by CAN's sports team to translate theoretical health advice into tangible, everyday practices and foster long‑term healthy habits. Guest of honor Captain Saad Al‑Houti—a former Kuwaiti national footballer—opened the tournament with a motivational address. 'Sport is a message before it is a result,' he told participants, praising CAN's efforts to empower youth as ambassadors of prevention. 'Such initiatives strengthen the role of sports in community building and give young people the chance to drive positive change.' The tournament's opening night drew a large, enthusiastic crowd. Over the coming days, the Haidu‑CAN Olympics will continue with mini‑tournaments, educational meetings and health‑focused competitions designed especially for young athletes.
Kuwait Times
23-06-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
CAN champions sports as tool for cancer prevention
KUWAIT: As part of the joint sports program between the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) and Haidu Academy, the Kuwait Amateur Cup for Academies concluded with strong participation and vibrant energy. The tournament was held under the golden sponsorship of CAN and organized with the support of the Public Authority for Sport (PAS) and the Kuwait Football Association (KFA). Dr Khalid Ahmed Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CAN emphasized the powerful role of sports in promoting awareness and building immunity against chronic diseases, including cancer. He noted that the rise in cancer cases—estimated at 1 to 5 percent annually—can be mitigated through regular physical activity. 'Health development is closely tied to sports,' he said, stressing that simple routines like walking for an hour a day can burn between 200 to 300 calories depending on one's weight and speed, while also improving heart health, regulating blood pressure, and boosting immunity. He highlighted studies showing that consistent physical activity can reduce the risk of certain cancers by up to 30 percent. The month-long tournament featured 16 teams and over 100 amateur players, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere. The 'Haidu CAN' team clinched first place after an impressive final performance, while player Saud Matar received the 'Best Player of the Tournament' award for his exceptional skills. At the closing ceremony, Abdullah Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, praised the initiative, stating that such tournaments are essential in raising awareness among youth about the importance of sports and fostering a healthy lifestyle in the community. He added that the Haidu CAN sports program will continue organizing year-round activities and tournaments for all age groups and both sexes, in alignment with CAN's mission to combat cancer through a healthy and active lifestyle. He encouraged young people to participate in upcoming events, especially during the summer, when swimming races are in full swing.
Kuwait Times
28-05-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
Makin Club empowers female cancer survivors with health awareness
KUWAIT: As part of its ongoing mission to empower female cancer survivors, the Makin Club, affiliated with the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), recently held a health awareness lecture featuring specialized female doctors. This event aligns with the Makin Club's goal to raise health literacy and promote the importance of continued care after the treatment journey. Dr Iman Al-Shammari, Secretary of the CAN campaign and Chairperson of the Makin Club Committee, emphasized the critical importance of rebuilding the body and strengthening the immune system after cancer recovery. She highlighted the need to enhance the quality of life for recovering women by providing accurate health information from trusted specialists. Dr Al-Shammari noted that misinformation can cause unnecessary anxiety and fear, negatively impacting psychological health. To address this, the Makin Club employs a strategic approach, organizing activities, events, and initiatives developed by experts and implemented according to a clear timetable. During the lecture, Dr Nada Al-Ibrahim, a specialist in obstetrics, gynecology, urogynecology, and pelvic reconstructive surgery, spoke on 'Enhancing Your Health During and After Treatment.' Dr Noura Al-Ibrahim, a gynecological oncology specialist, followed with a presentation on cancer prevention, emphasizing women's cancers and the crucial role of early screening, particularly for cervical cancer. The lectures focused on maintaining physical and psychological health throughout and after treatment stages, stressing that regular screenings can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer. Key topics included boosting the immune system through balanced nutrition, evidence-based vitamin use, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The doctors also addressed managing early menopause caused by certain cancer treatments, offering solutions to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes through appropriate therapies and lifestyle adjustments. The session was highly interactive, with many recovering women actively participating by asking questions about the health challenges they face during and after their treatment. Concluding the event, the Makin Club announced a special outing for recovering women as part of its Counseling and Psychological Support Program. The 'Renewed Spirit Trip' will take place at Al Khiran Mall on the evening of Monday, June 2, 2025. Due to limited seats, those interested are encouraged to register by calling 65072072.
Kuwait Times
25-05-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
CAN launches sporting event to promote colon cancer awareness
KUWAIT: Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) launches a new sporting event under the Colon Cancer Awareness Initiative. The initiative, launched in May under the slogan 'Your Health is Your Decision,' highlights the importance of physical activity and nutrition in reducing cancer risks. KUWAIT: As part of its continued efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about cancer prevention, the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) has launched a new sporting event under the Colon Cancer Awareness Initiative. The initiative, launched in May under the slogan 'Your Health is Your Decision,' highlights the importance of physical activity and nutrition in reducing cancer risks. Dr Khalid Ahmed Al Saleh, Chairman of CAN's Board of Directors, stated that the campaign is committed to diversifying its outreach activities to increase public awareness, particularly regarding the prevention of colon cancer. He stressed the campaign's focus on encouraging healthy dietary habits and regular physical exercise as key preventive measures. As part of the initiative, a walking event was held at Capital Mall, where a designated booth served as the starting point for participants. The event featured three levels of participation: two rounds for beginners, five rounds for intermediate walkers, and ten rounds for advanced participants. The event fostered an enthusiastic and interactive atmosphere, with giveaways distributed to attendees and informational brochures highlighting the benefits of walking in cancer prevention. The materials also offered guidance on recognizing early signs of colon cancer. In conjunction with the event, CAN hosted an educational lecture in collaboration with the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition. The session was held at the CAN headquarters at the Kuwait Society for Controlling Smoking and Cancer in Al-Qadisiyah and presented by Nawal Al-Jazzaf, head of the Preventive Nutrition Department at the Authority. Titled 'Nutrition and Colorectal Cancer,' the lecture covered a range of key topics, including the importance of a fiber-rich diet, reducing salt and sugar intake, and the significance of hydration. Al-Jazzaf recommended that daily sugar intake should not exceed 36 grams (9 teaspoons) for men and 24 grams (6 teaspoons) for women. She also advised consumers to carefully read food labels and incorporate 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits daily to help boost immunity and reduce cancer risk. The event and lecture form part of CAN's broader mission to educate the public and promote a proactive approach to cancer prevention through informed lifestyle choices.
