Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar Cancer Society (QCS), in collaboration with the National Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance in the Eastern Mediterranean, hosted a discussion session titled ‘Enhancing Access to Early Detection and Treatment of Breast Cancer in the Region’, as part of the 71st Session of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Committee Meeting.
Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani, chairman of Qatar Cancer Society; Dr. Mustapha Al Ferjani, minister of health of the Republic of Tunisia; Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO EMRO regional director; and Dr. Ibtihal Fadhil, EM-NCD Alliance Chairperson were present.
The discussion session brought together a group of government health officials from various countries in the region, along with WHO officials, technical experts, researchers, healthcare practitioners, civil society organizations, women’s health advocates, patient rights activists, and health journalists.
This session is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer, providing an ideal opportunity to unify efforts among key stakeholders from different sectors to stimulate initiatives aimed at improving access to early detection and treatment in the Middle East.
Barriers to Early Detection and Treatment was another topic covered. The session addressed key challenges women face in accessing early detection and treatment services, such as lack of awareness, social stigma, and inadequate health resources.
Under the Best Practices and Success Stories category, successful experiences in implementing early detection programs were highlighted, which can serve as models for other countries.
In conclusion, a set of future recommendations was proposed to ensure sustained efforts toward improving breast cancer outcomes in the region.
On this occasion, Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani, chairman of the Qatar Cancer Society, stated: “The aim of hosting this event is to prioritize early detection of breast cancer. We believe in integrating early detection into national health policies and cancer control plans in the region. We also aim to share best practices, build recommendations, and exchange successful experiences in this field.
“This discussion session aims to build partnerships and enhance collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, and community groups to ensure effective implementation of early detection and access to treatments after diagnosis. Given that breast cancer is the most common among women, we need concerted efforts to achieve better outcomes.”
He further remarked: “The organization of this event is a response to the WHO global initiative, which calls on member states to prioritize early interventions and integrate early detection of breast cancer into health policies. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community engagement and awareness programs, along with partnerships with civil society organizations and patient advocates to ensure that policies and practices are patient-centred and meet the needs of those affected by cancer.”
He expressed the Qatar Cancer Society’s commitment to continue working with local and international partners to enhance efforts in early detection and treatment, contributing to improving women’s health in the region.
The session concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at alleviating the burden of breast cancer in the region and achieving equitable access to early detection and timely treatment. These recommendations include:
Increasing awareness: Enhancing stakeholders’ understanding of the burden of breast cancer and the importance of early detection, leading to stronger advocacy and increased resources to address this issue.
Improving guidance: Providing WHO guidelines on strengthening health systems in the region to reduce mortality rates and improve survival outcomes for breast cancer patients.
Enhancing policies: Developing inclusive and gender-sensitive policies that address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of women affected by breast cancer, regardless of social or geographical status.
Improving awareness efforts: Empowering women to access information and support networks, enabling them to actively participate in their health decisions and seek early detection services.
