“Shanab”, the male cancers initiative of the Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) has launched an awareness campaign that runs through to December 15 with a range of activities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. The campaign highlights the importance of early detection of prostate and testicular cancers and coincides with Men’s Health Awareness Month observed in November every year.DrSawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FoCP, said, “Prostate and testicular cancers are the most common cancers in men. Latest statistics show that more than 48,500 men are diagnosed annually with testicular cancer, and sadly 8,900 die of the illness. Therefore, FoCP launched “Shanab” to raise awareness about these two male cancers and the importance of early detection. It is important to break the barriers of fear and shame that hinder many in dealing with them.”
“Shanab”, which means moustache in Arabic, is part of the “Kashf” programme set up by FoCP to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of highly curable cancers. The campaign includes a giant model of a moustache which resembles the “Shanab” logo and represents masculinity and brochures about the cancer are also being distributed. A photo contest is being held which involves people taking shots of the giant moustacheand posting them on social networking sites under the hashtag #Shanab with weekly prizes forthe best pictures and captions being provided by the sponsors.Al Madhi added: “We launched this awareness drive to continue efforts to promote awareness about early detection of prostate and testicular cancers. According to medical studies, prostate and testicular cancers are highly treatable and completely curable if found and detected in the early stages. Using our giant moustaches is a fun way to raise awareness about risks that may affect men's health due to cancer.”
Al Madhi thanked the sponsors of the campaign for their role in making it a success, including the Bank of Sharjah, AstellasPharma, and Channel 4 Radio Station. She also thanked the venue partners, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Abu Dhabi-based Aldar Properties, Nakheel Properties and the Jumeira Beach Residence Walk, for hosting the campaign’s activities and events. The campaign toured Abu Dhabi stopping in Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain on November 23 and 24, Yas Mall in Yas Island on 25th and 28th and the Mall in the World Trade Centre in Abu Dhabi on November 29th and December 1st. The campaign finished up the Abu Dhabi tour at Al Raha Beach on December 2-4.In Dubai, the campaign toured Ibn Battuta Mall from November 22-30, and is at the Golden Mile Galleria from December 1-9. It will wrap up its tour at Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk from December 10 to 15. In Sharjah the campaign has various activities on Al Majaz Waterfront between 5 to 10 December and Al Qasba from December 11-15.