Al Hilal Bank, in collaboration with the Burjeel Hospital, has launched a “Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign” that will deploy a mobile mammography unit in different parts of Abu Dhabi to provide free check up for ladies from October 24 to 28, 2012. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer ailment in the UAE, accounting for 28 per cent of female deaths in the country, according to statistics from the Abu Dhabi Health Authority.
The campaign, which is being organized as part of Al Hilal Bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, underlines the company’s continuing thrust to support various initiatives that benefit its clients and the greater society. The mobile mammography unit to be used in the campaign is owned and operated by Burjeel Hospital. More than 3,300 screenings have already been conducted in the unit since it was inaugurated in 2010.
“Al Hilal Bank is fully committed to support civic-oriented initiatives and find suitable solutions to the most pressing challenges in the communities we serve. Our sponsorship of the mobile mammography unit for the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign reflects this genuine concern given that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UAE. Moreover, it helps establish the true character of Al Hilal Bank as a value-driven institution that cares for its customers and the community. We are therefore excited with this new project as we look forward to generating greater awareness about preventive measures against breast cancer and ultimately helping save more lives,” said AVP, Public Relation & Corporate Communication, Al Hilal Bank.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Managing Director, Burjeel Hospital, said: “It has been our strategy to partner with reputable organizations to create greater impact and reach out to more people with the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. We are therefore pleased that Al Hilal Bank has shown strong interest in this project and has agreed to be its sponsor. The participation and contributions of our strategic partners such as Al Hilal Bank will be crucial in the success of this campaign.”
Although breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UAE, there is a high chance of survival if it is diagnosed early. However, around 80 per cent of cases in the Middle East are diagnosed during the advanced stages of the cancer when odds of survival are no longer as high. The Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign aims to generate awareness about the importance of regular breast screening as a key preventive measure against breast cancer.
