KUWAIT: On the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) of the Kuwait Society for Preventing Smoking and Cancer (KSCC) organized a special event at Farah Center for the Elderly, with the aim of bringing joy to the elderly and improving their psychological and social health.

Dr Khalid Ahmed Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the CAN Campaign, extended his congratulations and blessings to the State of Kuwait, the government and the people, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. He prayed to the Almighty to protect Kuwait and its people.

Dr Al-Saleh stressed the importance of paying attention to the psychological wellbeing of the elderly, as it plays a vital role in enhancing their quality of life and overall health. He explained that social interaction and participation in recreational activities contribute significantly to reducing the feeling of isolation and improving mood, which reflects positively on their physical and psychological health. He added that such events strengthen social ties and emphasize the role of society in supporting and caring for the elderly and integrating them into social activities.

The event witnessed a distinctive atmosphere, where attendees participated in competitions organized by the administrative and volunteer team of CAN, which included riddles and Kuwaiti traditional proverbs. Adding to the joyous atmosphere, the event featured traditional Kuwaiti songs. Attendees made beautiful memories as gifts were distributed to the elderly. Appreciation gifts were also presented to employees and workers in social care homes.

As part of its awareness campaign, CAN distributed awareness bags that include health guidelines on the first signs of common diseases in the elderly, such as breast and colon cancer in women and colon and prostate cancer in men. The campaign was also keen to alert workers in social care homes to the importance of early detection of cancer, by providing them with comprehensive information on early symptoms, prevention and early detection, to ensure the provision of integrated health care for the elderly. The event witnessed the participation of volunteer teams, which contributed to enhancing the atmosphere of joy and human warmth among the elderly, emphasizing the importance of community initiatives in supporting and caring for this precious group of people.