TECOM Investments hosts awareness session on breast cancer

Organised as part of the Breast Cancer Awareness month, the event was attended by more than 80 women from the business clusters and was led by Dr Rabab Rizvi, Specialist-Family Medicine from the Welcare Ambulatory Care Centre.

Among the highlights of the session was 47-year-old survivor, Brenda, sharing her story of how early detection saved her life.

Bader Al Zarei, Director of Corporate Affairs TECOM Investments, said:

"TECOM places high priority on the welfare of its staff and business partner community. Sessions such as this provide vital information while increasing awareness on health and wellness issues. This workshop particularly highlighted early detection in breast cancer as a crucial step for combating the disease."

According to statistics, early detection of breast cancer gives a 90% survival rate compared to 83% with detection in later stages.

Dr Rizvi presented valuable information on ways to perform a self examination.

Detailing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, she also elaborated on the risk and protective factors.

She said: "With one in eight women developing breast cancer, the importance of early detection is vital. A grassroots awareness campaign is needed by the medical profession in the UAE to ensure there is enough knowledge about early detection among women. Currently, there are far too many cases of detection during stage 2 and 3, which can prove detrimental to life."

Sharing her emotional tale of her fight with breast cancer, survivor Brenda told the participants of her ordeal and her continuing journey, urging them to heed specialists' advice on early detection.

Brenda said: "My world crashed around me and I fell apart initially when the information about my breast cancer was revealed. But, gradually with acceptance, I resigned myself to the fact that I had no control over destiny and in the midst of my darkness, it was only my faith that gave me solace.

"From what I went through, I have now learnt to look at life differently. I have no regrets or bitterness. I stand proud and grateful for I now know the Almighty is with me and I have been given a second chance."

Strong in its commitment to health and wellness of employees, TECOM Investments offers free annual check-ups for employees as part of the health surveillance programme.

It also organises periodic blood donation campaigns to raise awareness on medical fitness.