UAE: Zulekha Healthcare Group launched its ‘Screen and Survive’ campaign in its seventh edition in association with EWINGS, the Managing Operator of Mahzooz. The campaign offers free screenings that are open to the public including residents and visitors from March 27 till April 27, 2022 with the aim of supporting the UAE’s national target of decreasing cancer fatalities each year.

Zulekha Healthcare Group Co-Chairperson Ms. Zanubia Shams and Mr. Farid Samji, Chief Executive Officer – EWINGS marked the collaboration of raising greater awareness on colorectal cancer by exchanging agreements to support the cause of early detection and prevention through early screenings. The year’s campaign announcement was followed by the launch of their podcast “Zulekha Connect” that is yet another communication platform of the group that will ensure maximum engagement with patrons and partners on various topics of public interest. 

A panel of experts from Zulekha Hospital Dubai and Sharjah including Dr. Nafad Mohamed Lofty Elhadidi Consultant General Laparoscopic and Vascular Surgeon; Dr. Sameh Aboamer Consultant Surgical Oncology; Dr. Mouhamed Mounier Specialist Gastroenterologist, Dr. Sajad Ali Mohammad Specialist General and Laparoscopic Surgeon; Dr. Sheela Prince General and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Dr. Bharadwaj Ponnada Specialist Medical Oncology discussed and presented on diagnosis, treatment advances and procedures over a CME just after the launch.

The campaign in its 7th year will be on for a month at both the hospital facilities. Zulekha Healthcare Group Co-Chairperson Ms. Zanubia Shams said, “Zulekha Hospital has been successfully leading health awareness campaigns in UAE over many years and we are happy organizations have joined us in our effort to spread awareness on deadly diseases. Individuals have benefitted from these screenings. Our campaigns serve as an important reminder to keep a check on our health.” 

Farid Samji, CEO of EWINGS, the Managing Operator of Mahzooz said of the collaboration, “At Ewings, giving back to the community, especially through initiatives that safeguard their health, has been a vital pillar of our CSR framework.”

“We’re honoured to join forces with an organisation of Zulekha Hospital’s repute and support a life-saving campaign such as Screen and Survive to work towards rooting out colorectal cancer in the region.”

Nearly 90 per cent of the UAE residents above the age of 40 years have never undergone screening for colorectal cancer before, according to a survey done by Abu Dhabi-based Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC).  Colon cancer is the second most common cancer recorded in the UAE and the second highest cause of cancer death. Doctors advise men should get themselves screened for colon cancer at the age of 40 since studies have shown that the cancer occurs at an earlier average age of 47 in the country. Health authorities generally recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years for people over the age of 40.

‘Screen and Survive’ is led by Zulekha Hospital and supported by partners EWINGS on behalf of Mahzooz, Khaleej Times and Dar Al Khaleej. To register for the screening, call 600524442 or visit crc.zulekhahospital.com