The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has kicked off its annual Pink October campaign in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative began with strong public participation at the Pink Caravan’s fixed and mobile medical clinics, where free early detection screenings — including clinical checks, mammograms, and ultrasounds — are being offered at more than 86 locations across the UAE.
Campaign focus
The campaign reflects FOCP’s belief that awareness and prevention go hand in hand. To support this, the Pink Caravan is hosting educational sessions and interactive workshops for residents of all ages and backgrounds. These aim to highlight the significance of early detection and promote a culture of proactive health practices.
Aisha Al Mulla, FOCP Director, explained that “Pink October embodies our mission to turn awareness into a preventive health culture. Through collaboration with our partners, we can combine awareness, emotional support, and corporate engagement to create lasting positive change.” She praised Sharjah’s role in driving health and humanitarian initiatives, noting that the campaign aligns with the UAE’s broader commitment to public health.
Clinics and timings
Running throughout October, the campaign features eight permanent clinics alongside mobile units:
- Sharjah: Al Majaz Waterfront (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Abu Dhabi: Mushrif Mall (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Al Ain: Mall of Al Ain (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Dubai: City Walk (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain Mall (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Ras Al Khaimah: RAK Mall (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Fujairah: Lulu Mall (4 pm – 10 pm)
- Khorfakkan: (10 am – 4 pm)
Mobile medical clinics will travel across major cities, expanding coverage to dozens of additional sites.
Corporate participation
Businesses are also encouraged to join the initiative by hosting Pink Caravan mobile clinics at their premises. These visits provide mammograms for female employees over 40 and clinical breast exams for both women and men aged 20 and above.
Other services include:
Pink October Wellness Day: A corporate health program offering screenings and mammogram vouchers.
Educational Sessions: On-site and virtual workshops on breast self-examination, prevention, and early detection.
Community events
This year’s campaign features a series of public events, including:
- Pink October Festival at Aljada, Sharjah (Oct 10–12): Free screenings, family entertainment, sports, and competitions.
- Battle Cancer Challenge (Oct 25, Dubai): Screenings, a fitness competition, and fundraising via Yalla Give.
- Pink Tour (Oct 12, Expo City Dubai): In collaboration with Los Habibies.
- Ride with Rixos (Oct 18, Abu Dhabi Corniche): Cycling event and charity fundraising.
Partnerships and support
FOCP is working closely with major healthcare providers, such as Advanced Care Oncology Center, Emirates Hospital Group, Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, and University Hospital Sharjah. Survivors, volunteers, and community members are also being called on to amplify the message of prevention and early detection.
Pink Shop
As part of the awareness drive, FOCP’s Pink Shop is selling items such as pins, bracelets, candles, and keychains. Proceeds will directly support cancer patients and their families.
Good initiative however they should provide affordable treatment such as chemo at less price.