Manama – AGU: Students from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) organised an awareness campaign on lung cancer under the theme "A Breath of Hope: Raising Awareness of Lung Cancer."  The event, held at the AGU campus, highlighted the importance of early detection and prevention.

Dr Amina Abdulrahman Ismail, Head of AGU’s Pathology Department and scientific supervisor of the event, stated that the campaign addressed a critical health issue. "Lung cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers globally, underscoring the need for increased awareness regarding its causes, risk factors, symptoms, types, statistics, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment," she said. 

The student-led initiative featured interactive displays creatively illustrating common symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.  The strong link between smoking and lung cancer was emphasised, making smoking cessation a key component of the campaign.

Student organisers Mai Al Shammari, Maha Al Binali, and Fatima Al Shehi stressed the importance of combining prevention and early diagnosis in combating lung cancer.  They highlighted that prevention begins with avoiding risk factors such as smoking and exposure to carcinogens, significantly reducing the chances of developing the disease.  They also underscored the role of a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and a balanced diet, in promoting lung health.

The Pathology Department showcased real lung tumor samples as a visual learning tool, exhibiting the changes in lung tissue caused by cancer.  The event also discussed available treatments, which vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.

Dr Mohammed Al Makhluq, a thoracic diseases consultant representing the Bahrain Cancer Society, participated in the event and reinforced the crucial role of prevention and early diagnosis in reducing the disease's impact and improving recovery chances.