On October 8, 2008, the Jordan Breast Cancer Program (JBCP) launched a large scale nation-wide breast cancer awareness campaign under the patronage of the Minister of Health. The Global Initiative network had a key role in this campaign, as the Global Initiative participants and program team took the lead on dreaming up, planning, and volunteering at awareness events in each CFTC city. These events successfully engaged multiple generations and work sectors in JBCP’s October and March breast cancer campaigns. Throughout 2008, these events reached 250,000 women, 16,000 women were trained in breast self-awareness, 20,000 received free clinical breast exams (CBE), and 2,000 women were referred for a mammogram.

October Breast Cancer Awareness Campaigns

Amman

• The campaign launch event took place in October 2008 in Amman. Events were attended by high profile guests from the royal family and the ministry of health.
• October 17, 2008: An open day was arranged in Al Husain Gardens that featured five large tents and was attended by 2,500 people. Tents included:
  • Information and volunteers to talk about JBCP and the Global Initiative
  • Medical tent with midwife and doctor on hand to answer questions
  • Healthy eating choices
  • Survivors who shared their experiences
  • Skit about breast cancer was performed every hour

Balqa

• October 18, 2008: An open day in Balqa was organized with the All Youth Commission. There were 12 different booths focused on breast cancer awareness, health, and screening. Those who attended the “open day” also received free Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) screening at the health center in the Balqa governorate.

Irbid

• October 26, 2008: An open day in Irbid featured a bicycle ride from the Greater Irbid Municipality building to the Yarmouk University campus where there were additional activities and information.

Zarqa

• October 15, 2008: The open day in Zarqa was organized under the patronage of the Zarqa Governor in the King Abdullah II Cultural Center. The day included an exhibition of handicrafts and included speeches by the JBCP Director, Head of the Non-Communicable Disease Directorate, NGO representatives, Course for the Cure participants and the Governor of Zarqa.