“QCS “Launches “Trail of Wellness“ to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance health awareness in the Qatari community, the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) has launched a new sustainable program titled “Trail of Wellness”, which will be broadcast through social media platforms starting from the holy month of Ramadan. The program aims to provide the public with health tips focused on proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and disease prevention.

The program features a series of episodes filmed in various locations, including shopping malls, helping it reach a broader audience. It aims to encourage individuals to adopt a healthy lifestyle by offering practical, simple, and applicable solutions for everyday life.

“Trail of Wellness” also serves as an interactive platform for community engagement. It includes surveys and direct questions posed to the public in open spaces, aiming to measure the level of awareness regarding health and nutrition guidelines and to identify challenges that may hinder the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. These interactions also contribute to clarifying common misconceptions about health and delivering accurate and effective messages.

Through this program, the Society reaffirms its belief that knowledge is power and that spreading accurate information helps individuals make better health decisions, thereby improving their chances of preventing diseases, especially cancer.

The program addresses several key topics, most notably: balanced nutrition, foods that enhance cognitive function, foods that help prevent cancer, the importance of soy products in the diet, and their potential role in disease prevention, as well as other topics related to public health and healthy living.

 

Read more...

Muhammad Mawloud: with family’s support, I overcame the challenges

Mr. Mohamed  Mawloud was living normally until he began to experience some strange symptoms one day. After undergoing all the necessary tests and a colonoscopy, he was found to have rectal cancer. He was told then that the next step would be to undergo surgery to remove the tumor. Having no previous knowledge or predetermined notions about rectal cancer, Mr. Mohamed approached this news with the ideology that it was like any other condition that could happen to any person. His faith and trust in Allah dissipated doubts about what the future may hold for him. Even though the procedure was painful, he drew strength from the incredible support of his family, especially his sister. He went on to take a 1-year leave from his job to complete his chemotherapy course. Unfortunately, the body aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite he experienced as byproducts of the therapy forced him to leave his job.

Despite everything, Mr. Mohamed is relieved to have completed most of his treatment course. He is looking forward to his very last session, after which he can look for a new job.

Mohamed received radiotherapy and chemotherapy through the Qatar Cancer Society, which he got in touch with through Hamad Medical Corporation. He was delighted with the psychological support he received from the medical team, which positively influenced his well-being as he went through this challenging journey. While recalling what he learned, Mr. Mohamed pinpointed that patience was the most critical lesson he acquired from going through treatment. He advises everyone going through the same journey to comply, continue the treatment, and face it without fear of the temporary side effects that eventually go away. Finally, Mr. Mohamed reiterated that what helped him the most was praying and reading a daily verse of the Qur’an, which he described as “God’s cure to people.”

Read more...

“Qatar Cancer Society” and “Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm” Sign “ MOU “

To enhance collaboration between the charitable and legal sectors in Qatar, the Qatar Cancer Society” QCS “ has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the “Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm. The goal of this partnership is to support the charitable and awareness activities of the Society by providing specialized legal consultations, reaffirming the importance of integrated efforts to support society and achieve sustainable development.

The MoU was signed by Ms. Mona Hussein Ashkanani, General  Manager of  Qatar Cancer Society, and Ms. Mashael Mohammed Al-Sulaiti  – Founder & Chairperson of Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm. This collaboration is part of the mutual efforts between both parties to achieve the Society’s goals in supporting the Qatari community and raising awareness about various issues affecting both citizens and residents in Qatar.

Under the terms of this MoU, the Society commits to highlighting the law firm by displaying its name and logo on the supporters’ page of its website, as well as sharing it on social media platforms. The Society will also offer the firm several special invitations to attend its annual event and will honor a representative from the firm in appreciation of its continuous support for the Society’s charitable activities.

On the other hand, Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm commits to providing free legal consultations to the Society. These consultations will cover a range of legal services, including resolving disputes related to banking and investment activities, as well as providing legal support in real estate matters, and drafting real estate development contracts, and lease agreements. Additionally, legal services will be provided regarding labor disputes and other legal matters that may arise in connection with the various activities carried out by the Society.

The firm also commits to providing legal representation for several cases annually related to the Society’s activities, whether they are filed by the Society or against it. This support will include legal representation, submitting legal memoranda, and all necessary actions until a ruling is issued. The cases to be represented will be selected in coordination between both parties.

Ms. Mona Hussein Ashkanani, General Director of the Qatar Cancer Society, emphasized that this MoU represents an important step towards expanding cooperation between charitable institutions and law firms in the State of Qatar. She said, “At the Qatar Cancer Society, we consider this partnership with Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm an important step in enhancing our community role. We are delighted to work with a firm of high reputation in providing legal services, and this collaboration will allow us to improve our capacity to provide support in various areas that are important to our community.”

For her part, Ms. Mashael Al-Sulaiti, Founder & Chairperson of Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm , affirmed that this collaboration represents her firm’s clear commitment to supporting community activities in Qatar. She added, “We are proud to cooperate with the Qatar Cancer Society, and we see this partnership as opening new horizons to achieve shared goals in serving the Qatari community. We are committed to providing full support, including offering various legal consultations that contribute to facilitating the Society’s work and strengthening its efforts in serving the community.”

The agreement also stipulates the formation of a joint team between both parties to oversee the implementation of the agreed programs and activities. This team will be responsible for monitoring everything related to the awareness and legal activities between the two parties. The team will work on developing joint activities and ensuring their execution by the shared goals of the Qatar Cancer Society and Mashael Al-Sulaiti Law Firm.

 

 

Read more...

QCS Joins the 17th International Breast Cancer and Immunology Conference in Cairo

Qatar Cancer Society “ QCS “  participated in the 17th International Breast Cancer, Gynecology, and Immunology Conference (BGICC 2025), held in January 2025 at the Hilton Heliopolis Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. The delegation was led by His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jaber Al Thani, Chairman of  Qatar Cancer Society and President of the International Cancer Patients Alliance.

This year’s conference, held under the slogan “One World, One Struggle,” brought together over 5,000 oncology specialists from more than 50 countries and 250 expert speakers. Over 75 international organizations were represented, all committed to revolutionizing cancer care globally.

In his opening speech, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jaber Al Thani emphasized the urgent need to address the disparities in cancer care in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting the immense opportunities offered by advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and cancer genomics. He stated, “By adopting innovative health solutions, we can significantly improve care delivery and treatment outcomes in our region,” reaffirming the Qatar Cancer Society’s commitment to fighting cancer through the advancement of local healthcare systems and achieving regional and global excellence.

During the session titled “Discovery Hub: Turning Cancer Challenges into Political, Technological, and Educational Priorities,” His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jaber Al Thani presented comprehensive strategies to map regional gaps in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, stressing the importance of taking serious steps to bridge these gaps through supporting effective health policies and strategic cooperation between countries and organizations.

During the conference, a joint declaration was signed by His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid and prominent regional leaders, aiming to establish a tangible and actionable framework to improve cancer treatment, prevention, and patient care across the MENA region. Commenting on this achievement, His Excellency said, “This declaration is a testament to our commitment and shared vision for a future in which advanced and comprehensive cancer care is accessible to patients across the region.”

Dr. Hadi Mohammed Abu Rashid, the scientific advisor to the society and member of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the International Cancer Patients Alliance, emphasized that the society’s collaborative initiatives and ongoing focus on innovation are the foundations for enhancing equitable cancer care. He added, “We are committed to using research and strategic partnerships to achieve positive outcomes for patients and ensure that every technological advancement translates into tangible benefits for patients across our region.”

He further added, “This conference is an important opportunity to exchange experiences and enhance international cooperation to improve cancer care, achieving tangible progress in prevention and treatment both regionally and globally

Read more...

Social development minister launches QCS strategy for 2025-2028

Under the patronage of HE Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi, Minister of Social Development and Family, Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) launched its strategic plan for 2025-2028, aligning with national and sectoral strategies in Qatar to achieve the National Vision 2030.

QCS conducted an institutional analysis of the internal and external environment and an assessment of stakeholders’ needs and expectations. It also carried out benchmarking with similar organizations. Based on the results of the institutional analysis, the society developed its vision to be “A cancer-aware community and a better life for those affected” and its mission to be “A non-profit charity that relies on donations and community partnerships in providing the services that seek to raise awareness of cancer and ways to prevent it. As well as the importance of early detection, providing financial and psychosocial support to patients, recovered people and their families, and contributing to professional development and scientific research in the field of cancer.

During the event, HE Buthaina al-Nuaimi honored the sponsors and supporters of the Qatar Cancer Society, whose contributions have had a significant impact on its sustainability in the fight against cancer and support for those living with the disease.

On this occasion, HE Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Jaber al-Thani, Chairman of QCS, expressed in his speech: “The QCS is proud to launch its new 2025-2028 strategy, which truly reflects our ambitious vision of providing a better life for cancer patients and offering the necessary support to combat the disease by building strong partnerships with relevant sectors to ensure the achievement of desired outcomes.”

HE continued: “This launch comes at a critical time when public health challenges have increased, and the need to enhance health services and improve care quality for patients and their families, particularly concerning cancer, has become more urgent.”

Read more...

Mohammed Shabaan: with patience and faith, I’m living with cancer

Mohammed Shabaan, a 55-year-old man, has always prioritized a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine as part of his daily life. His passion for health extends to his small home farm, where he cultivates a variety of fruits and vegetables, recognizing the numerous benefits they offer. Among his crops is the Moringa tree, known for its medicinal properties in reducing blood sugar levels and providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

In March 2017, Mohammed faced what he describes as a life-altering moment. Initially experiencing mild constipation, which he attributed to consuming pomegranates, his condition persisted for ten days, prompting him to seek medical attention. Despite efforts with laxatives, his symptoms worsened with sudden and severe vomiting, leaving him exhausted and unable to walk, leading to an ambulance call.

Following extensive tests, including CT and PT scans, Mohammed received a diagnosis of Stage 3 Colon Cancer. This news came as a shock, as he had expected his symptoms to be transient and quickly resolved. However, upon learning of his diagnosis, Mohammed was prepared to confront the challenges ahead, remaining steadfast in his faith and determination to overcome the obstacles brought by his illness.

Concerned about potential complications, including the temporary placement of a colostomy bag, Mohammed grappled with worries about his image and reputation among family and friends. Despite these fears, he remained resolute in facing the uncertainties of his condition.

After a prolonged discussion, surgical intervention became necessary due to bowel obstruction, with initial attempts to insert a tube proving unsuccessful. However, with the arrival of a determined surgeon, Mohammed’s faith in God’s will was affirmed as the procedure was completed without complications.

Following surgery, Mohammed underwent chemotherapy, enduring severe side effects, including weight loss and diarrhea. Nevertheless, he found solace in the realization that he was nearing victory in his battle against cancer, having weathered the storms of surgery and chemotherapy.

Throughout his journey, Mohammed found unwavering support and understanding from his family and friends, witnessing a positive shift in attitudes towards cancer acceptance. Despite the challenges, he remained hopeful and resilient, facing each obstacle with courage and determination.

Mohammed views cancer not as a defeat but a new beginning—a chance for personal growth and resilience. He actively participates in initiatives such as the “Step of Hope,” in collaboration with the Qatar Cancer Society and the National Center for Cancer Care and Research, advocating for cancer awareness and support.

In conclusion, Mohammed is grateful to the Qatar Cancer Society for pioneering efforts in supporting cancer survivors and raising awareness. His journey is a testament to the power of patience, faith, and community in overcoming life’s most significant challenges. Through his story, Mohammed inspires others to embrace hope and resilience in the face of adversity, proving that with patience and faith, living with cancer is possible and can lead to a life of newfound strength and purpose.

Top of Form

 

 

Read more...

Doha Hosts Relay for Life for the First Time with 800 participants

“Relay for Life 2024” event has launched in Qatar, an inspiring global initiative organized by the Qatar Cancer Society “QCS “  for the first time. Approximately 800 participants, including cancer survivors, healthcare providers, and community members, gathered to celebrate life and honor those we have lost. The event also served as an opportunity to strengthen efforts to combat cancer and mitigate its effects.

The event took place at the Aspire indoor sports track and was attended by a selection of public figures. The walking activity lasted for four hours, symbolizing the ongoing battle against cancer.

The event featured a variety of recreational activities suitable for all ages, making it an ideal experience for families and friends. Inspirational stories from survivors were shared, highlighting their courage and personal experiences in facing the disease. Additionally, loved ones who have passed were honored, adding an emotional dimension to the event and enhancing feelings of unity and empathy.

In addition to recreational activities, the event included awareness initiatives aimed at increasing understanding of cancer, the importance of prevention, and early detection, as well as sessions to support patients and their families and enhance knowledge about treatment options and care.

In his remarks, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jaber Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Cancer Society, stated: “We are proud to host Relay for Life 2024 in Qatar. This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting the community in its fight against cancer and provides an opportunity to unite efforts and build a supportive community that fosters positive spirit and solidarity in facing health challenges.”

He also thanked all partners and supporters who actively contributed to this event, including Aspire as the main partner, Ooredoo as a strategic partner, and mowasalat as a gold sponsor, along with Roche, Sport Hub as silver sponsors, and other contributor such as Wellcare Pharmacy, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Al SRAIYA  Hotels & Hospitality Group, Rayan natural Water, Al AWALLA< , THE TORCH – Doha , and OAK  BERRY.

His Excellency added, “Relay for Life 2024 is a pivotal event that embodies the values of solidarity and positivity, bringing together all members of the community from various ages and backgrounds. We invite everyone, whether families, friends, or those interested in public health issues, to participate in this special event. Together, we can make a real difference and contribute to changing the course of the battle against cancer.”

 

 

Read more...

Between Pain and Hope: The Journey of Sheikha Al-Mannai with Cancer

My name is Sheikha Al-Mannai, and I am a television and radio presenter. I started my career as a teacher in 1995 and served as a school principal until 2016. After finishing my tenure as the principal of an independent school, I decided to travel abroad for leisure and to find a new passion. Little did I know that this journey would begin another, more challenging journey in my life.

The Initial Discovery of the Tumor

While staying abroad, I noticed a lump on my upper shoulder. At first, I thought it was just a bruise from hitting the swimming pool wall before my trip. However, the lack of any bruising made me concerned and prompted me to conduct a self-examination, a skill I had learned in medical courses I attended in the past. I felt a small, ball-like lump under my skin, but I ignored it, believing it would disappear over time.

The Diagnosis Journey

After four months of the lump’s appearance, I decided to visit an ultrasound specialist upon returning to Qatar. Although the lump had shrunk after taking the medications prescribed by the doctor, it reappeared, increasing my anxiety. I then went to the health center, which referred me to Hamad Hospital. The next day, I received a call from the hospital requesting that I schedule an appointment with an oncology specialist.

Examinations and Tests

The doctor began with a clinical examination and suspected a malignant tumor. He asked about my family’s medical history and whether I had children. After the initial review, I was referred to the surgery department to remove some lymph nodes for testing. It took two weeks to get the test results, and during that time, the days passed slowly and anxiously. When the results came in, it was confirmed that I had stage one breast cancer. I was in shock and cried, not out of fear of the disease, but out of fear for my late mother, knowing how scared and anxious she would have been for me.

Starting Treatment

When I informed my mother of the test results, I noticed the worry on her face. My doctor was a great support, explaining that I needed chemotherapy followed by surgery. He informed me about the stages of treatment and the challenges I might face, such as hair loss and weight loss. Despite the physical and emotional pain, I decided to hold on to hope and faith.

Family Support and Faith

I began chemotherapy at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research. The smell of the treatment caused nausea and made me feel fatigued. My father and my doctor accompanied me to every session, waiting for me throughout the treatment. After each session, they would ask if I wanted to eat, but the treatment made me nauseous, and I had no appetite. I moved in with my parents during the treatment due to the side effects. I received treatment every 21 days.

Psychological and Social Challenges

What hurt me the most was seeing my mother cry when I returned from treatment sessions, as she could smell the treatment mixed with my scent and sensed my mood changes. I requested to be transferred to a hospital in Houston to complete my treatment, so my mother wouldn’t see me in my sick state. My brother accompanied me on my treatment journey, and I always tried to show him my strength so he wouldn’t feel pity for me.

Life in Houston

I considered the time I spent in Houston one of the best periods of my life, despite the challenges of the illness. I did not stay in inpatient housing but in a home away from other patients because I didn’t want to feel pitied. I focused on exercising, swimming, cooking, and keeping myself busy with household chores. I would wake up at ten in the morning and start my day by cleaning the house and doing laundry. These small details meant a lot to me and made me feel a great sense of accomplishment instead of feeling sorry for myself.

New Challenges

One day, I decided to live without wearing a wig, which shocked my brother when he saw me. He cried and left the house, but I told him that I had accepted my condition that it was temporary and that my health would return to normal in nine months. Despite the difficulties, I insisted that my brother and I go out before my treatment sessions to enjoy the weather, knowing that I wouldn’t be able to do anything the day after the treatment.

Lessons Learned

During my treatment, I realized the true meaning of family and the importance of having them by my side. My mother and father would call me several times a day to check on me. Despite my mother’s severe anxiety and deteriorating mental health, I always tried to show her that I was fine. This experience brought me closer to my children and siblings and gave me a chance to re-evaluate my life.

Conclusion

After arriving in the United States, my life changed completely. I became more faithful and consistent in prayer, and reading the Quran. I realized the importance of enjoying simple moments and stepping away from the pressures of daily life. I learned to allocate time for myself to maintain my health and connection with God and to appreciate divine blessings. The experience affected every aspect of my life and made me view things positively.

I went through a difficult experience, but I learned a lot from it. I realized that relying on God gives a person extraordinary strength to face any challenge. I consider my illness a test from God to see my patience and endurance. I became more humble before God’s greatness and more aware of the value of life, health, and family. Praise be to God for everything.

 

Read more...

The Iranian Ambassador Meets with the Chairman to Enhance Cooperation in Cancer Control

As part of efforts to strengthen international collaboration and exchange expertise in cancer combat, His Excellency Dr. Ali Saleh-Abadi, ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the state of Qatar., paid an official visit to Qatar  Cancer Society “ QCS “. The visit underscored the mutual interest of both parties in developing effective strategies to tackle cancer and support those living with the disease.

Upon arrival, His Excellency the Ambassador and his accompanying delegation were warmly welcomed by His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Cancer Society. Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani expressed his appreciation for the visit and praised the joint efforts of both sides in combating cancer and improving the quality of life for patients. During the meeting, discussions were held on ways to enhance cooperation and exchange knowledge and expertise, which would contribute to improving healthcare standards and providing necessary support to patients and their families.

During the visit, the Ambassador and his delegation took a comprehensive tour of Qatar

Qatar Cancer Society’s facilities. They were introduced to a range of the Society’s programs and initiatives aimed at cancer prevention and support for those living with the disease. The tour also included insights into the latest research projects and awareness initiatives undertaken by the Society, as well as the psychological and social support services offered to patients.

The visit also included discussions on developing future partnerships between the ؤcharity and Iranian health institutions. The talks focused on enhancing scientific research collaboration and sharing knowledge about the latest treatment methods, and advanced medical technologies.

In a statement, His Excellency the Iranian Ambassador emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against cancer, noting that this visit represents a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. He expressed his country’s readiness to support joint efforts in this vital field and expand cooperation to effectively address health challenges.

For his part, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani expressed his deep appreciation for the visit, noting that it enhances the prospects for collaboration between health institutions in both countries. He highlighted the importance of mutual awareness of cancer issues and developing new strategies to assist patients and their families.

At the end of the visit, both sides exchanged commemorative photographs, expressing their hope for the continuation of this fruitful cooperation and achieving shared goals in combating cancer and improving the quality of life for patients both locally and internationally.

 

Read more...

Qatar Cancer Society and Qatar Museums Sign MoU for Cancer Awareness Collaboration

Qatar Cancer Society” QCS “ and Qatar Museums have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance collaboration between the two parties in cancer awareness and supporting people living with cancer emotionally and financially. The agreement includes integrating community-oriented awareness activities into the cultural and artistic events organized by Qatar Museums.

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chairman of  Qatar Cancer Society, and Mr.Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Museums, signed the agreement.

Under this memorandum, both parties will work to enhance awareness efforts by incorporating Qatar Cancer Society’s activities into museum events and exhibitions. Qatar Museums will support these efforts by providing community workshops and interactive activities, supporting cancer survivors emotionally and financially., illuminating buildings in solidarity with the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and World Cancer Day, and providing discount cards for cancer survivors.

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chairman of QCS, emphasized that the agreement reflects the commitment of both parties to raise community awareness about the importance of early detection and cancer prevention, as well as providing the necessary support for patients and their families. “We believe that integrating health awareness activities with cultural and artistic events will significantly contribute to spreading important health messages and reaching a wide segment of the community.”

H.E. explained that “the collaboration with Qatar Museums will enable us to offer workshops and awareness lectures within a unique cultural and artistic environment, making awareness messages more impactful. Additionally, Qatar Museums’ support for cancer survivors through dedicated activities and events reflects the spirit of cooperation and solidarity in the Qatari community.”

We look forward to achieving tangible results through this collaboration and always strive to build partnerships that enhance our efforts in combating cancer and providing the necessary support for patients and their families. We thank Qatar Museums for their support and commitment to this noble cause, and we look forward to more fruitful collaboration in the future. H.E. added.

Mr  Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Museums, emphasized: “Our collaboration with Qatar Cancer Society marks a significant step in utilizing cultural platforms to bolster community health initiatives. This partnership underscores our commitment to enriching lives through art and culture while advancing impactful societal causes. Together with Qatar Cancer Society, we strive to establish meaningful awareness and support frameworks that resonate profoundly within our community.”

Read more...