Continuing the momentum of raising awareness on early detection and prevention of cancer Zulekha Healthcare Group launched the eighth edition of its yearly cervical cancer awareness campaign this June. Maintaining their connect with the communities, driving the message digitally, this year the event was hosted virtually fueled by intelligent video technology driving the new phygital experience for attendees.
Cervical cancer is the 2nd leading cancer and 7th cause of deaths in women in UAE. Most of the cases of cervical cancer are not detected until they are in the late stages, when it is difficult to treat. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the third leading cause of deaths.
Therefore, in order to increase early detection and prevention of cervical cancer among women in the UAE, it is crucial that women regularly undergo screenings. Zulekha Hospital’s campaign ‘Chance to Change’ aims to support communities through their free screening program which will run from 14 June till 14 August. Eligible women can benefit from a complimentary consultation with gynecologists and take a PAP smear test.
Dr. Pamela Munster, Professor of Medicine, UCSF and Cause Ambassador joined the panel discussion virtually along with other specialists from Zulekha Hospital including Dr. Laxmi Yaliwal – Specialist Gynecologist, Dr. Soha Abdelbaky – Consultant Medical Oncologist, Dr. Nidha Iqbal Shapoo – Specialist Medical Oncologist and Dr. Nora Sharafli – Specialist Gynecologist.
Zanubia Shams, Co-Chairperson advised: “Many women have been missing and avoiding going to the hospital for their routine checkups because of pandemic fright. As a healthcare provider, it’s our responsibility to educate them on the consequences when there are delays in diagnosing and treating such deadly ailments. We have practices and protocols in place to keep you safe and help expedite your medical needs.”
“We also recommend routine vaccine for girls and boys from 11-12 years age, it can be given as early as 9 years and for older kids who aren’t yet vaccinated to get series of HPV vaccine shots: Children (ages 9–14) get the vaccine in 2 shots over a 0- to 6-month period. Teens and young adults (ages 15–26) get it in 3 shots over a 6-month period.” adds Dr. Jasbir G. Chhatwal, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynecologist and HOD at Zulekha Hospital, Dubai.
Zulekha Hospital has screened more than four thousand individuals over the span of seven years. The ‘Chance to Change’ campaign is supported by advocating partners; Igloo, Friends of Cancer Patients, Prognica, Dar Al Khaleej & Mom ‘nToes. To register for the screening, call 600524442 or visit change.zulekhahospitals.com
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