Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Coinciding with World Cancer Day on February 4, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, staged its second annual Cancer Run on February 1 at Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
The next event will be held on February 8 at Dubai Design District in Dubai.
Participants may choose from four distances: 1km, 3km, 5km and 10km.
The event also has a competitive component, with awards for the top finishers in the 10km and 5km runs.
The races are intended to encourage community involvement and support cancer-related initiatives.
Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the run, Dr. Stephen Grobmyer, Oncology Institute Chair at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, explained the inspiration behind the run and how it fits into the hospital's broader mission.
"As a cancer centre, we are not just focused on modern treatment and innovation in cancer care and diagnosis, but we have a bigger mission, which is to work within our community and educate everyone about the importance of awareness and early detection.
"Through modern techniques of early detection and screening, we can identify cancer at its earliest stages, improving outcomes and reducing the amount of treatment needed."
Dr. Grobmyer pointed out the need to raise awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, in lowering cancer risk.
Commenting on the development of the event, he said: "Last year's event was great, but this one is much bigger and has a lot more energy. I think the word is getting out. It has been such a fun event for people to come together, socialise for a very good cause and exercise together.
"We are excited for next week's event in Dubai to continue spreading awareness. This is our first time in Dubai and we are focused on raising awareness and supporting patients and their families going through cancer treatment. It is the second year in Abu Dhabi and the first in Dubai."
Dr. Grobmyer added that the event, coinciding with World Cancer Day, encourages collaborative activities that involve raising funds and awareness in order to reduce the disease's global burden.
The funds are utilised for clinical research, patient support as well as the advancement of cancer detection and treatment.
"Next year, in 2026, we are looking forward to an even bigger event that will continue to raise awareness about the power of all of us working together," he said.
Dr. Ali Al Jabery, Staff Physician, General Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, shared his thoughts on the event with Aletihad: "It is a fabulous event that caters for everyone - all ages, all groups, for patients and for even healthy individuals.
"It is a message to everyone who needs to be screened, everyone who is fighting cancer, and anyone who's done fighting cancer."
Dr. Al Jabery indicated that the plan is to expand the run to Dubai, involving everyone from across the UAE.
The event is open to all ages and encourages participation to support cancer-fighting families and friends.
On his participation, he said: "I came here to obviously participate, not to compete. I really enjoy the spirit and the vibes of the run. The competitive aspect certainly adds more excitement to the event, giving those who are competitive a chance to shine, while also allowing everyone to participate and track their own progress. I know that the money raised from this Cancer Run will go to charity."
He also noted the importance of raising awareness about early cancer detection and prevention.
"The run is like a huge walking billboard. It sends a message to everyone participating, as well as those watching through various media outlets. It is a message to healthy individuals who are interested in optimising their health, seeking the right kind of care, and getting early screenings.
"While it is certainly meant to support cancer warriors in their fight and help survivors feel better and return to their regular lives, it is also for healthy individuals to detect early signs of cancer."
Dr. Al Jabery also highlighted the community screening stations, among them a vital signs check booth and a breast cancer awareness booth.
These are designed to assess blood pressure, heart rate, as well as resting metabolic activity.
"Hydration stations and medical support are crucial for keeping participants safe and comfortable. They prevent issues like cramps or fatigue, and boost morale. The electrolyte stations play a big role in both hydration and encouragement," Dr. Al Jabery added.
