“Walk with Hope” with OCA in October

The Oman Cancer Association (OCA) announced the 22nd Annual Walkathon, one of the Sultanate of Oman’s leading community-based health awareness events.

The walkathon will take place on Thursday, 29 – Friday, 30 October 2026, at Al Qurum Natural Park, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, under this year’s inspiring slogan: “Walk with Hope.'

The annual walkathon will bring the community together once again under the meaningful slogan “Walk with Hope.' The slogan reflects OCA’s belief that hope is an essential part of the cancer journey: hope for prevention, hope through early detection, hope during treatment, and hope for survivors and their families.

Speaking at the press conference, the chairman of OCA, Dr Waheeda Al Kharousi, said for the first time the event will be held for two days. The walkathon on Friday will be symbolic, under 2 km.

'This was a special request from students and their parents. And that is why we are having it on the weekend this time,' said Dr Al Kharousi.

'The Oman Cancer Association, after reviewing the previous walkathon and looking at the satisfaction of the participants, we have decided to have the event for two days, Thursday (29th of October 2026) and Friday (30th of October 2026),' he added.

The Annual Walkathon has grown into one of Oman’s most recognized annual community health awareness events, across all ages from children to adults of any background, bringing together thousands of individuals, families, healthcare professionals, organizations, schools, and community groups in a shared commitment to cancer awareness, prevention, and control.

'The Walkathon is more than a physical activity; it is a platform for solidarity, hope, awareness, and community action. It provides an opportunity for participants to stand alongside cancer patients, survivors, and families; remember those whose lives have been affected by cancer; and promote the importance of prevention, early detection, and healthy living,' noted Dr Talal al Balushi, Treasurer, OCA.

The growing impact of the event is reflected in the strong community participation it continues to attract, as in 2025, the Walkathon recorded more than 8,000 participants, demonstrating the increasing public engagement with cancer awareness and prevention initiatives across Oman and among cancer patients and their families.

Every step taken during the Walkathon represents a step towards greater awareness, earlier detection, healthier communities, and stronger support for those affected by cancer. It is a reminder that no one should face cancer alone and that collective action can create meaningful change through walking together.

Established in 2000, the Oman Cancer Association is a non-governmental, non-for-profit organization dedicated to raising cancer awareness, supporting cancer patients and their families, and promoting cancer prevention and control through early detection across the Sultanate of Oman. Through nationwide awareness campaigns, educational programs, community outreach initiatives, and strategic partnerships, OCA continues to encourage healthier lifestyles and strengthen public understanding of cancer prevention and early detection.

OCA’s efforts contribute to improving public health outcomes and supporting the national priorities of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in the areas of health promotion, disease prevention, community participation, and well-being.

OCA is complementary for social and health issues in times of peace and crisis and concentrates on supporting cancer patients and their families.

'Come and join us and enjoy yourself with your family; on the first day we will not walk, but we will have more activities for children and families all day long. Make it a special family day outside the house with your children,' said Dr Al Kharousi.

For ladies over 40, a mammography facility will be available, and as part of a healthy lifestyle, there will be facilities to find out basic health status, such as blood pressure, blood sugar tests, and detecting blood group.