The Oman Cancer Association had since 2019 suspended its breast cancer awareness programme and annual walkathon due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo: ONA

Muscat: Oman Cancer Association will host its 18th walkathon in support of cancer patients on November 1, it has been announced.

The Oman Cancer Association had since 2019 suspended its breast cancer awareness programme and annual walkathon due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In 2021, we successfully ran the 17th walkathon virtually,” a release from Oman Cancer Association said.

The authorities also said that they would be resuming a range of activities in October in support of the Global Pink Ribbon initiative for breast cancer in all the malls, some during weekdays and others during weekends.

“These activities include: awareness programmes for breast cancer in all malls, the Mobile Mammography Unit will offer free mammography services to all ladies above 40 years of age in some of the malls, free clinical breast examination and daily programs to teach young ladies how to undertake self-breast examination as part of the screening for breast cancer,” the release said.

It is important to note that breast cancer is very high in Oman, affecting mostly young ladies under 40 years of age. This year, the 18th Annual Walkathon at the Qurum Natural Park on Tuesday the 1st of November from 4:00 PM till 6:30 PM.

“As always, this symbolic walk is undertaken to demonstrate support to all cancer patients and showcase that they are not alone. As part of our policy to introduce cancer to the younger generation, there will be a kids corner with a range of exciting and educational activities.

“High quality T-shirts will be provided during the registration, however, early registration is encouraged and available at the Oman Cancer Association in Al Ghubra, in the malls, at schools and at private and corporate companies,” the release added.