KUWAIT: Chairman of the National Campaign for Cancer Awareness (CAN) Dr Khalid Al-Saleh said Kuwait has witnessed a 40 percent increase in cancer recovery rates over the past decade. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 11th GCC Joint Week under the slogan “United by Our Excellence” held Wednesday, Dr Al-Saleh said the improvement reflects growing public awareness and increased early medical consultations. He stressed that early detection significantly boosts recovery rates.
He noted that most breast cancer patients in the past sought treatment during stages three and four, whereas today the majority present in stages one and two, raising recovery rates to above 85 percent. He attributed this progress to successful awareness programs implemented by civil society organizations and health ministries across GCC states. Dr Al-Saleh added that studies conducted by the campaign showed a 30 percent rise in cancer awareness within Kuwaiti society, along with a marked decline in fear of the disease, which is increasingly viewed as a manageable chronic condition.
Meanwhile, Head of the Executive Committee of the 11th GCC Week, Dr Hessa Al-Shahen, said the event coincided with a regional oncology conference and included more than 45 initiatives and activities, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions and lectures organized by participating associations. She expressed appreciation to all supporters and contributors, especially the boards of participating associations, for their efforts in promoting awareness and prevention across Gulf communities.
