The Sharjah Ladies Club, SLC, branches have launched a breast cancer awareness programme, featuring an range of seminars, training workshops, sports activities and special membership offers, in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is marked in October every year.

The programme, which runs until October 31st at Wadi Al Helo, Al Dhaid, Mleiha, Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn, is part of SLC’s commitment to engage with international events and national initiatives that highlight social issues on the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The programme’s spectrum of activities focusses on promoting awareness about breast cancer, the importance of early detection, addressing concerns and dispelling misconceptions.

Noora Ali Al Blooshi, Events Coordinator at SLC, said, "We firmly believe that promoting awareness of the most widespread forms of cancer among women, particularly breast cancer, is a national and social responsibility. As one of the leading institutions that provides a safe environment for women and girls, we feel that we should play a leading role.

"Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, representing 16 percent of all types of cancer in women. Statistics show that 1.1 million women are diagnosed each year. It is a staggering figure which strengthens our determination to ensure that the message of early detection is conveyed to as many women as possible," she added.

SLC branches organise an array of awareness activities, and some provide ladies with free breast cancer testing.