Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) Launches Pink October Campaign With Record Engagement
The annual Pink October campaign has been launched by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On its opening day, the campaign’s signature initiative, the Pink Caravan, saw unprecedented levels of community and corporate participation as both fixed and mobile medical clinics opened their doors to the public.
Offering free early detection tests — including clinical examinations, mammogram, and ultrasound screenings — the campaign covers more than 86 sites across the UAE. This wide-ranging approach ensures that residents and citizens alike can benefit from essential healthcare services regardless of their location.
The initiative features an extensive educational programme, including interactive workshops and activities for all community segments. Special packages have also been developed for corporate partners, such as Mobile Clinics, Corporate Wellness Days, and dedicated awareness sessions to encourage employee participation and support workplace health.
Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, stated that the campaign “reflects a vision of turning awareness into a culture of prevention, supported by FOCP, Pink Caravan and strategic partners.” She highlighted Sharjah’s role as a hub for pioneering health initiatives and noted that the endeavour aligns with national priorities of prevention and early intervention, presenting a model that inspires both the region and the world.
From 1st to 31st October, eight fixed clinics will operate daily from 16:00 to 22:00 (except Khorfakkan clinic, open from 10:00 to 16:00). Clinic locations include Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah, Mushrif Mall in Abu Dhabi, Mall of Al Ain, City Walk in Dubai, Umm Al Qaiwain Mall, RAK Mall, Lulu Mall Fujairah, and Khorfakkan. Meanwhile, mobile clinics will rotate throughout the UAE, with detailed schedules announced via FOCP’s social media channels.
The campaign encourages corporate participation by offering mammogram screenings to female employees aged 40 and above, as well as clinical exams to women and men aged 20 and above. Corporate Wellness Days incorporate not only screenings, but also special vouchers and both online and in-person awareness lectures.
A number of events will further amplify Pink October’s impact. FOCP will host the second edition of the Aljada community event in Sharjah from 10th to 12th October, offering free screenings, family-friendly activities, workshops, and competitions. The Pink Caravan will participate in Dubai’s Battle Cancer Challenge at The Seven Stadium on 25th October, with both screenings and fundraising activities conducted via the Yalla Give platform. Other highlights include the Pink Tour at Dubai Expo City (12th October) and the Ride with Rixos cycling event at Abu Dhabi Corniche (18th October).
FOCP has called on the public, companies, cancer survivors, volunteers, influencers, journalists, and medical experts to join the Pink October movement and help spread its preventive mission. The campaign is backed by essential partners and sponsors, including Advanced Care Oncology Center, Emirates Hospital Group, Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, University Hospital Sharjah, Crescent Petroleum, Sharjah National Oil Corporation, Sharjah Media City, SEWA, Marwan Group, Sella Beauty, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, Zulal, Arabian Automobiles Company, and SHIFT Car Rental.
To further extend support to cancer patients and their families, the FOCP’s Pink Shop features merchandise including pins, bracelets, candles, bags, and water bottles, with all proceeds going directly to patient support.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
