Indian Doctors in UAE Host Event to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness
In a show of solidarity and support for the fight against breast cancer, nearly 100 Indian doctors from across the UAE gathered for an evening of songs, dances, and informative discussions. The event was organized by the women doctors of DNS Al Emarat, the UAE chapter of the ‘Doctors in Sarees’ group. The doctors’ attire for the event was pink-colored sarees, symbolizing their support for breast cancer awareness.
The efforts of the women doctors were commended by Vandana Sudhir, the wife of the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir. She highlighted the importance of wellness, self-love, workplace leadership, and health screening in her speech. Vandana emphasized that doctors, whom she referred to as “superwomen,” should prioritize their well-being, especially in today’s fast-paced world.
Dr Sudeshna Byng, a consultant in emergency medicine at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi, noted that the event coincided with the nine-day celebrations of the Indian festival of Navratri. To maintain the festive spirit, the doctors performed a traditional Garba dance, choreographed by Dr Neha Gami, a consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at the HealthPlus Family Health Center in Abu Dhabi.
The event also featured a narration by Lilac, a Filipina resident, who shared her personal journey of recovery from breast cancer. Lilac emphasized the importance of trust in medicines and healthcare professionals, as well as the need to remain brave throughout the treatment process.
Dr Punam Bijlani, a consultant in plastic and reconstructive surgery at Emirates Hospital in Dubai, stressed the significance of regular screenings. She highlighted that early detection can greatly increase the chances of curing breast cancer with less invasive treatments and surgeries. Dr Bijlani also mentioned the advancements in breast reconstruction after mastectomy and encouraged women to explore their options.
Dr Sangeeta Sharma, the medical director and specialist in pathology at Al Ahalia Hospital in Abu Dhabi, explained that the ‘Doctors in Sarees’ is an international movement by women doctors aimed at promoting traditional Indian wear and supporting local weavers.
Dr Kalpana Krishnareddy, a consultant in intensive care, emphasized the unity among the doctors, despite their diverse backgrounds, through their shared love and passion for the six-yard drape – the saree.
The event concluded with a ramp walk, coordinated by Dr Rekha Ahluwalia, a specialist anesthesiologist at Phoenix Hospital. The doctors pledged to spread awareness about the importance of regular screenings and lead by example. Breast cancer awareness month is observed in October.
This event organized by the Indian doctors in UAE not only showcased their support for breast cancer awareness but also highlighted the unity and dedication of these medical professionals in promoting overall well-being and proactive healthcare practices.
I have over 10 years of experience in the field of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. I have attended numerous conferences and events around the world, and my work has been featured in major publications such as CoinDesk, Bitcoin Magazine, and Yahoo Finance.
