
Muscat: The World Cancer Congress Summit and Exhibition being held in Oman was officially inaugurated by His Highness Sayyid Taimour bin Assad al Said on Monday evening at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Organised by the Oman Cancer Association coinciding with its 25th anniversary, the first day of the summit was dedicated to the community.
The open day for the community saw more than 450 attendees from within the country and abroad.
Dr Sheikh Kahlan al Kharousi, Assistant Grand Mufti, delivered a speech where he emphasized taking care of one's health and the importance of early detection and advised on how people should not be wary of a cancer diagnosis.
The discussion panel was moderated by HH Princess Dina Mired, global advocate from Jordan, particularly in the field of cancer. Speaking to the media she said the most important message to be conveyed is the role of community in implementing cancer control.
She said it was wonderful to have the World Cancer Congress in Oman because it brings together everyone from the Middle East region and North Africa.
The Summit is expected to provide opportunities for global interaction, networking, and guidelines to the needs of each participating country.
The exhibition is to showcase the latest facilities and technologies available for cancer management. The exhibition will see participation of pharmaceutical companies, equipment manufacturers, international and local hospitals managing cancer, and paramedical treatment and rehabilitation institutions. The exhibition will be open to the public in the afternoons.
"This achievement has only been possible because of the unwavering support of the government, public and private sectors, individuals, researches, caregivers, volunteers, donors, staff, the media, patients and their families," noted Yuthar, a four-time cancer survivor.
During the community session, the attendees expressed their interest to know more about ways to prevent cancer and early detection.
The discussion touched upon the role of an individual and what a person can do to spread the word.
"Everybody plays a role in cancer awareness," explained Dr Zahid al Mandhari, Radiation Oncologist and board member of OCA.
Cancer survivors and doctors also participated in the discussions.
The World Congress is an internationally recognized and accredited institution that works collaboratively with both the community and oncologists. It is based on the belief that cancer prevention and control is only possible through awareness, screening, education, retention, early diagnosis, proper management, and research. The World Congress will address medical oncologists, paramedics (nurses, technicians, etc.), the patients and the community.
A symbolic two km walk for World Breast Cancer Pink Ribbon awareness will take place on the 6th of November 6th at Al Qurum Natural Park.