27 October 2017
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month across the globe, and across the West Bank, Gaza and Lebanon, Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) and our partners are promoting understanding of the disease and the importance of early diagnosis.
In the West Bank, MAP’s partner, the Dunya Women’s Cancer Centre, has been holding a variety of events as part of their Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.
The Dunya Centre, in Ramallah, is the only clinic in the West Bank to specialise in gynaecology and breast cancer. It offers specialised cancer diagnostic services such as mammography, ultrasound and biopsy, as well as holistic services for women undergoing treatment such as psychological counselling and physiotherapy. Dunya’s team also work in the community to improve public understanding of the disease and encourage early diagnosis and self-checking.
This October, their Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign pulled out all the stops, with dozens of events across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. These included public talks; support and solidarity marathons and fundraisers; recreational events for women in recovery; and a scientific lecture for health sector employees in Palestine titled, “Updates on Breast Cancer Etiology and Genetics” presented by Dr. Muath Milhem, Dr. Riyad Shreem and Mr. Mahmoud Irziqat.
Throughout the month staff, volunteers and supporters, distributed leaflets on how to check for breast cancer and advice on access services.
Communities were encouraged to get active for breast cancer awareness, with fun-runs and marathons at Al-Mustaqbal School in Ramallah; Al-Najah University in Nablus in partnership with the Ministry of Health; and in the centre of Ramallah in partnership with with Right to Movement.
Fundraising and recreational events were also held at hair and nail salons, including events for women in recovery where they could have their hair cut and speak to a specialised community-health and social worker from the Dunya Center.
There were also performing arts events and talks, including a play performed by the Mariam Organisation in Nazareth, and lectures for parents of students in West Bank schools throughout the month.There was even a Zumba event organised in partnership with the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA).
Throughout October, the night sky was also shone pink in Palestine, with the Palestine Tower in Ramallah and Mahmoud Darwish Square in Nazareth both lit up pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
It is hoped that these events and activities will help spread understanding of the disease, increase early detection and access to treatment, and ultimately save the lives of Palestinian women affected by the disease.
You can read more about our other work on breast cancer care, treatment and awareness here. If you would like to support this work, please donate today:
