Cancer survivor point up role of early detection

MUSCAT, JULY 1
The Oman Cancer Association (OCA) marked its Cancer Survivor Programme on Tuesday, bringing together cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, volunteers and community members to celebrate resilience while reinforcing the importance of early detection, prevention and long-term support.
The programme featured a welcome address, a special video highlighting the association’s 25-year journey, keynote speeches, a health awareness session, a panel discussion with cancer survivors and medical experts, and an open discussion that encouraged participants to share their experiences.
The OCA Jubilee video reflected on the association’s achievements over the past quarter century, describing its journey as one “led by one woman’s courage and embraced by a nation.” It highlighted initiatives ranging from nationwide awareness campaigns and mobile screening units to paediatric family support, palliative care, the annual walkathon and new projects aimed at strengthening patient care and community engagement.
Addressing the gathering, OCA President Dr Wahid al Kharousi described cancer survivors as “cancer warriors,” saying every person diagnosed with the disease makes a conscious decision to fight.
“This association was built for you, cancer survivors,” he said. He stressed that survivors have a unique role in raising public awareness because “you are talking from experience, and experience gives you respectability,” while urging patients to continue regular follow-up examinations even after recovery, noting that early diagnosis remains the key to successful treatment.
Dr Manal al Zadjali, OCA Secretary-General, outlined the association’s vision to reduce the burden of cancer locally and internationally by focusing on prevention, improving patients’ quality of life, and supporting families. She highlighted flagship initiatives including mobile screening units, Dar Al Hanan, palliative care training and the annual walkathon, alongside partnerships that continue to expand the association’s impact.
During the health awareness session, OCA Board Member Dr Zahid al Mandhari emphasised that many cancers can be prevented through healthier lifestyles and regular screening. He noted that smoking, obesity and poor lifestyle choices remain among the leading preventable risk factors, encouraging the public to adopt healthy habits and prioritise early detection.
Yuthar al Rawahi, founder and Honorary Life President of OCA, delivered a keynote address via a video presentation shown during the programme. Reflecting on her own cancer journey, she described it as the inspiration behind establishing the association.
“You should never take life for granted,” she said. “Cancer is not a death sentence.” She encouraged survivors to maintain lifelong follow-up appointments, adding that “early diagnosis is the most important thing,” while calling on the wider community and private sector to continue supporting initiatives that improve the lives of cancer patients and their families.