Abu Dhabi joins worldwide movement to raise awareness of gynaecologic cancers

Abu Dhabi (WAM): On 17th September, the Abu Dhabi community will gather together to join a Globe-athon to raise awareness of cancers that affect women. The initiative is supported by the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy and Yas Marina Circuit, and is being led by Mafraq Hospital, which is owned and operated by the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, SEHA. More than 700 Abu Dhabi residents are expected to attend the event at GoYas, Yas Marina Circuit, an event that invites ladies to walk, run and cycle Yas Marina Circuit's F1 track or take part in group fitness activities including Boot-camp, Pilates, and Yoga. The Globe-athon to End Women’s Cancers is a worldwide movement bringing together physicians, patients, caregivers, organisations and everyday people to raise awareness, and ultimately increase early detection and prevention of gynaecologic cancers. These cancers impact women worldwide, accounting for 19 percent of the 5.1 million estimated new cancer cases each year, according to the World Health Organisation International Agency for Research on Cancer. A problem nearer to home that impacts women in the U.A.E., is cervical cancer, which research indicates is on the rise and is the fourth most common cancer amongst women here, with Emirati women comprising 30 percent of the cases (World Health Organisation). It is also the 4th most common cause of cancer death in women but many cases of cervical cancer can be treated if caught early enough (2010 World Health Organisation paper [United Arab Emirates: Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, Fact Sheet 2010]). "By joining the Globe-athon movement, we are empowering women in the U.A.E. with the knowledge to help prevent and detect gynaecologic cancers early on, when they are more treatable," said Dr. Hessa Al Mazrouei, Senior Resident, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mafraq Hospital. "These cancers are often difficult to diagnose as most women don’t recognise the symptoms. As more women learn and speak about gynaecologic cancers with their friends, loved ones and doctors, we are creating a culture of awareness that could ultimately save a generation of women." As part of the movement, Mafraq Hospital is encouraging residents to take the Globe-athon STEPtember Pledge. The Pledge is an opportunity to further raise awareness about gynaecologic cancers by setting a goal of taking 10,000 steps a day in September, as studies show that gynaecologic cancers are linked to increased obesity rates. In addition, the World Health Organisation recommends that individuals work to take 10,000 steps each day for optimal health. Abu Dhabi is joining more than 130 communities in more than 60 countries this September that are celebrating the second-annual Globe-athon with local awareness events – from walks to dance performances to rowing competitions to educational seminars. – Emirates News Agency, WAM - http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395269634088.html