Gulf Cancer Awareness Week 2025 Launches Under the Theme “Your Health is in Your Awareness”

February 2, 2025

The 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week, themed “Your Health is in Your Awareness,” commenced today, Sunday, February 2, 2025, with a strong emphasis on regional collaboration and public health advancement.

In his opening address, delivered on his behalf by Dr. Nadia Al-Jumaa, Assistant Undersecretary for Healthcare at the Ministry of Health, Kuwait’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi, highlighted the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations’ exemplary joint efforts in health promotion and disease prevention. He described the annual event as “a shining milestone of collective action, uniting governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to advance preventive healthcare.”

Dr. Al-Awadi underscored the pivotal role of the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control (GFCC), established in 2002, in driving cross-border initiatives that have resonated regionally and internationally. He credited the Federation’s success to its strategic partnership with the GCC Health Council, which has bolstered public health priorities through evidence-based policies aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO)’s framework. Key focus areas include raising public awareness of cancer risk factors, promoting early detection, and empowering communities to recognize early symptoms to improve survival rates.

To ensure impactful outreach, Kuwait has formed a national coordination committee comprising relevant organizations, survivors, and volunteers, reflecting a spirit of solidarity and community-driven action.

Uniting Gulf-Wide Efforts
Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Secretary-General of the GFCC, emphasized the transformative impact of the Gulf Cancer Awareness Week since its inception. “This initiative has reshaped societal perceptions of cancer, reframing it as a manageable chronic condition rather than a stigma,” he stated. He noted that 20 GCC-based associations under the GFCC umbrella—specializing in awareness, treatment, and psychosocial support—have organized over 2,200 events across the region to date.

Pioneering Psychosocial Support
Ms. Sheikha Azza Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Founder and Chairperson of Al-Sidra Association for Psychological Support of Cancer Patients, highlighted the critical role of mental health in cancer care. As the GCC’s first non-profit public benefit organization dedicated to psychological and emotional support for patients and caregivers, Sidra aims to enhance mental well-being and treatment adherence.

A Multifaceted Campaign
Dr. Hessa Al-Shahin, Chair of the 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week’s Coordination Committee, outlined this year’s diverse agenda. Over 72 scientific, social, artistic, and recreational activities will engage all segments of society, complemented by targeted awareness campaigns via digital content, posters, and videos. “Our mission is to empower those affected by cancer through meaningful support, advocacy, and education,” she affirmed.

The GCC’s decade-long commitment to cancer awareness continues to foster resilience, hope, and progress in the fight against this global health challenge.