One of the key barriers to detecting breast cancer early in the United Arab Emirates was identified in the Community Profile as, “Lack of awareness of existing facilities, tools of early detection and importance of early treatment. It is with this in mind that the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi and the Global Initiative established “pink zones” throughout the country.

Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Zones

• “Pink zones” were active at least twice a year – in October and April – and establish a private space for women to openly discuss their health concerns and learn techniques for breast self-awareness.
• From their work in the “pink zones”, Global Initiative volunteers were able to identify the most common barriers to treatment, brainstorm ways to address gaps in breast health, and facilitate referrals to treatment for many women in Abu Dhabi.
• The Global Initiative team has provided breast health information and lectures throughout the regions of Abu Dhabi, and has trained individuals as peer educators, enabling them to raise breast health awareness in their workplaces and communities.
• CFTC graduates and the Global Initiative team continue to conduct outreach to women across Abu Dhabi during October Awareness campaigns, sharing the video “Healing and Hope” which features breast cancer survivor’s stories (http://www.youtube.com/globalkomen), and empowering leaders in the private sector with tools to develop awareness programs in the workplace.
• For more information on current awareness campaigns and events please visit HAAD’s website on breast cancer awareness: http://www.simplycheck.ae/en/index.html