In line with Gulf Medical University’s commitment to health education and community engagement, the College of Medicine organized a comprehensive Breast Cancer Awareness Event to educate and engage students about the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and support for breast cancer patients, to highlight the role of nutrition and lifestyle in prevention and recovery and to create an interactive learning environment through educational games, posters, and quizzes.
The event took place in the Main Foyer of Gulf Medical University and was filled with vibrant and educational activities. Students from MBBS, MD, and BBMS programs actively participated in organizing and running various stations and interactive displays.
Key activities included: `
- Awareness Posters:
Students prepared informative posters highlighting, physiology of the breast, breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures. These posters served as visual tools to enhance understanding and engagement. - Interactive Quizzes and Games:
Fun and educational games were organized to test participants’ knowledge about breast cancer facts, myths, and early detection methods. Small prizes and gifts were awarded to encourage active participation. - Breast Self-Examination Demonstration:
A dedicated station demonstrated the correct method of performing breast self-examination using simulation models. Students and visitors learned the step-by-step process under supervision, promoting awareness and early detection. - Nutrition Station:
A special booth focused on the role of nutrition in breast cancer prevention and management, providing information about healthy eating habits and foods that may reduce cancer risk. - Awareness and Gift Counters:
To further encourage engagement, small giveaways and awareness ribbons were distributed to participants, symbolizing support for breast cancer fighters and survivors.
Participation and Engagement
The event witnessed excellent participation from students, faculty members, and visitors. The main foyer was filled with enthusiastic participants who actively interacted at each station.
The overall atmosphere was lively, educational, and supportive, reflecting the students’ dedication and the university’s spirit of community health promotion.
Faculty mentors appreciated the creativity and teamwork displayed by the students in organizing the event and effectively delivering health messages.
Outcomes and Impact
- Enhanced knowledge among students regarding early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
- Improved understanding of breast self-examination techniques through practical demonstrations.
- Strengthened student communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
- Encouraged a sense of social responsibility and advocacy among future healthcare professionals
The event not only increased awareness of breast cancer prevention and early detection but also emphasized the vital role of medical students in promoting community health.
This event was a collaborative effort supervised by Dr. Eman Hassan and organized with the valuable contributions of expert faculty members from various disciplines, including Prof. Faten Diab, Prof. May Khalil, Dr. Safaa Mahmoud, Dr. Yassmin Aboul-Ela, Dr. Raheleh Masoudi, and Dr. Marwa Mady. Their collective guidance and interdisciplinary collaboration played a key role in the successful execution of the event. Continued organization of such events will further enhance health literacy and strengthen the culture of awareness and prevention within the university and beyond.
