In October, Dubai’s golf community has embraced pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Golf clubs across the emirate are hosting charity tournaments and awareness events.
Mediclinic Middle East is playing a key role in these initiatives, partnering with several golf clubs to promote early detection and health screenings.
Events are being held at venues like Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in Ajman, Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Hills Golf Club, Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Montgomerie Golf Club, The Els Club, and Trump International Golf Club Dubai.
Increasing Awareness Through Golf
Dr. Sara Alom Ruiz, Chief Commercial Officer at Mediclinic Middle East, noted that the organization started collaborating with golf clubs last year to reach a broader audience through community sports.
“Our partnership with golf clubs began to raise breast cancer awareness, inspired by Pia Fleury, a prominent figure in Ladies Golf in the UAE. We supported events at The Els Club, Montgomerie Golf Club, and Arabian Ranches Golf Club, and are now expanding to Dubai Hills Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club by month’s end,” Dr. Sara stated.
The partnerships prioritize education and awareness over competition. After each tournament, Mediclinic doctors present on breast cancer signs, self-examination techniques, and the importance of annual screenings.
Expanding Health Awareness
Dr. Sara mentioned that the initiative now includes men’s health.
“At several golf events, our initiative includes men alongside women. With Movember approaching, we’re focusing on men’s health, especially prostate cancer prevention and early detection,” she said.
Dr. Shaheenah Dawood, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Cancer Service Director – Dubai at Mediclinic Middle East, stressed the necessity of regular check-ups.
“Preventive screening is vital. It empowers individuals to manage their health, detect issues early, and make informed decisions. Early detection improves treatment success, a crucial message we aim to share,” she stated.
She also noted that busy lifestyles in Dubai often lead to postponed medical appointments.
“In Dubai’s fast-paced life, regular check-ups are frequently delayed. Our campaigns urge both men and women to prioritize health and undergo screenings,” Dr. Shaheenah added.
Inclusive Health Education
Dr. Sara emphasized that Dubai’s changing demographics enhance the need for community education.
“With more residents choosing to retire here, education and awareness across all age groups are vital. Our collaboration with golf clubs has effectively reached audiences in an engaging setting,” she said.
The medical group has strong ties to the UAE golf scene, partnering with major tournaments like the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, DP World Tour Championship, and HERO Dubai Desert Classic.
By uniting under the pink ribbon this October, the campaign showcases the significant role of sports in promoting health awareness and preventive measures across the UAE.
