Every October, people around the world shine a light on breast cancer awareness, emphasising the critical importance of early detection and community support.
This year, Dawoodi Bohra communities across the Middle East—including Oman, Sharjah, and Ajman—marked the month by undertaking a variety of public health initiatives focused on awareness, education, and care.
Activities ranged from walkathons and creative runs to medical camps and hospital visits, reinforcing a central message: prevention is better than cure.
Steps of solidarity in Oman
In the Sultanate of Oman, the Dawoodi Bohras of Muscat joined the 21st Annual Cancer Awareness Walkathon organised by the Oman Cancer Association (OCA). The event brought together participants from across the country in support of breast cancer awareness.
“The atmosphere was uplifting,” said Tasneem Boriyawala, a community participant. “The walkathon’s mission to promote awareness made the experience both meaningful and heartening.”
Maryam Taher Ali, another participant, shared, "We have always been encouraged to give back to society, and walking in solidarity with the wider community was a meaningful way to do so.."
Supporting young patients at Dar Al Hanan
Beyond public awareness, the community in Oman also focused on emotional support and care. Volunteers visited Dar Al Hanan, the OCA’s palliative care center, to spend time with young cancer patients as part of a “Day of Smiles” initiative.
Community members brought gifts and engaged children in recreational activities, creating a warm and cheerful environment. Sakina Kalangi described the visit as deeply moving. "The visit reminded me of the extraordinary courage of these young children . They taught us that hope becomes stronger when it is shared,” she said.."
Staff at Dar Al Hanan expressed appreciation for the continued support.
Empowering women in the UAE
In the United Arab Emirates, the Ajman community partnered with Aghaaz, a women-led community organisation to host a breast cancer awareness workshop.
The event also served as a networking platform, celebrating female entrepreneurship. The sight of Bohra women, dressed in their distinctive pink rida, was met with appreciation from the Aghaaz committee.
Zainab Patanwala, an attendee, highlighted the intersection of health and family welfare: "It was an enlightening session that reminded us of the need to prioritise our own health.”
Breaking taboos through medical action
The Sharjah community organised a comprehensive health camp at their community complex, offering free consultations, health check-ups, and support with mammogram reports.
Organisers noted that the initiative helped address hesitation around cancer screenings. Sakina Jawadwala, who helped with coordinating the camp, said: "The camp helped dismantle the hesitation often surrounding cancer screenings.”Dr. Yakuta Khambati echoed this observation"It was encouraging to see participants becoming more proactive and informed about their health.””.
A ribbon of hope
Alongside organised initiatives, individual community members also contributed in symbolic ways. In Ajman, Munira and Burhanuddin Udaipurwala completed a 5-kilometre run mapped to form the shape of a cancer awareness ribbon. The run was dedicated to individuals currently undergoing treatment as well as cancer survivors.
Through these diverse efforts, the Dawoodi Bohra community has reaffirmed that whether through a collective walk, a medical check-up, or a simple smile shared with a child, every gesture counts in the journey toward a cancer-free world.
