22 October 2014 - The Philippine Embassy Abu Dhabi held a lecture entitled “Breast Health Issues and Cancer Awareness and Management”, with a free breast screening on October 11 in observance of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Holiday Inn Hotel. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease.
The lecture and physical screening was conducted by Dr. Afra Mohamed Al Marri, Consultant Breast Surgeon at the Breast Care Center, Tawam Hospital, in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
During the lecture, Dr. Al Marri discussed breast anatomy and physiology, global breast cancer facts, detection, symptoms and treatment of breast cancer, breast cancer among men, and other related topics. She also demonstrated the correct way of conducting a self physical breast examination. The speaker emphasized the importance of early detection to combat breast cancer. She also directed the participants how to book a mammogram in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. During the open forum, the speaker shared her rich experience in handling patients with breast cancer.
In her remarks, Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Grace Relucio Princesa said that “the body is the temple of God or Allah so we should treat it with respect and care. This is why this lecture is being conducted – for us to be more aware of our bodies and to encourage healthy lifestyle.”
During the event, one of the participants raised a concern about the lump she could feel in her breast. Dr. Al Marri reassured her that they would extend assistance to check her condition. After the lecture, Dr. Al Marri herself conducted the physical examination on her, as well as other participants, and referred her to the proper institution in Abu Dhabi for further consultation.
To show support for breast cancer awareness, Philippine Embassy officers and staff wore the color pink or donned pink ribbons. Pink has been identified as the color in support of the cause.
The lecture, with free breast screening, was attended by Embassy personnel, Filipino community representatives and members of the media. The event was conducted under the Gender and Development Program of the Embassy.
Tawam Hospital is a semi Government facility providing healthcare services to the community of Al Ain and referral services for the Emirates and surrounding GCC countries. It is one of the largest hospitals in the U.A.E. and is affiliated with John Hopkins Medicine. Tawam hospital also serves as a regional referral center for specialized medical care and is a national referral center for oncology services. END