Dubai: The Al Jalila Foundation has reinforced the need for a big boost for medical research on breast cancer in the UAE.
With the Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicking off on October 1, Dr Abdulkareem Al Olama, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation, told XPRESS, “With the high prevalence of breast cancer among women in the UAE, it is clear that research and improved treatment are integral to combating the disease, and ultimately saving lives.”
He said, “Historically not much medical research on breast cancer has been done locally. In line with Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to encourage home-grown talent and boost research in the UAE, we have committed almost Dh2 million towards breast cancer research since our first grant cycle in 2014.”
270 patients
Al Jalila Foundation, through its A’awen programme, provides support, treatment and medical care to patients in the UAE who are unable to afford quality treatment. To date, the foundation has supported more than 270 patients, including 24 women with breast cancer.
Every October, the foundation also receives support from the community to help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment of patients unable to afford quality care. Last year, almost 100 events were dedicated to Al Jalila Foundation which raised over Dh1.5 million. Activities ranged from school pink days, community sports events, corporate bake sales, hospitality events and pink product sales.
The goal of the foundation is to keep the message alive beyond October.
