In cooperation with the Oman Cancer Association and the Ministry of Higher Education, Sultan Qaboos University organized Breast Cancer Awareness Day under the slogan "We Care". The event was held on 23 October 2019 at the Grand Hall of SQU Cultural Center under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al Saidi, Minister of Health.

Dr. Adel Al-Ajmi, breast reconstruction surgeon at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, spoke about the importance of awareness campaigns and seminars on breast cancer due to the increasing number of breast cancer cases globally and locally. The statistics show that Oman is the least affected among many countries, but most of the diagnosed patients in the country are being treated at later stage of the disease.

In her speech, Dr. Bodour Al-Lawati addressed the definition of breast cancer, symptoms and ways of reducing the risks. Dr. Marwa Abdullah Al Riyami, Senior Consultant Physician at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital spoke about early detection of the disease through several methods, like self-examination, clinical examination and periodic examination.

Dr. Amal Ambusaidi, a consultant at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, dealt with the psychological dimension of the disease and said that the patient goes through several stages, starting with denial, anger and bargaining, then depression and ending with the stage of acceptance, satisfaction and adaptation with the disease. These stages varies from one woman to another depending on social support and personality.

Dr. Abeer Al-Sayegh, Senior Genetics Consultant at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital spoke about the genetic factors of the disease, the method of genetic diagnosis, selecting the most appropriate treatment, knowledge of the gene that causes the disease and finally periodic genetic testing for people who are carrying the gene.

Writer Bushra Khalfan shared her journey with the disease and the stages she went through since the diagnosis of the disease to the treatment course and to full recovery. She also confirmed her confidence on Omani medical staff and noted that their capabilities and skills are no less than the quality of the medical services provided abroad.

Translated by: Hanadi Ali Al Tobi