Egypt’s Women Cycle for Breast Cancer Awareness

Egyptian women cycling to raise awareness about breast cancer which spreads among 17.8 percent of Egyptian women. Courtesy: Bike Land

In a bid to spread awareness on breast cancer in Egypt, a group of female cyclists roamed Cairo on Friday morning to bring people’s attention to the importance of combating the disease during its early stages. The initiative, organized by Girls Fitness Club in co-operation with Bike Land, is one among many others taking place around the world during the month of October – which marks the worldwide Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For four hours, the cyclists crossed about 13.6 kilometers, starting at Cairo Sports Club in the affluent district Zamalek, and passing through various areas around Giza, said the event organizers.

At a rate of 17.8 percent, breast cancer is considered to be the most common type of cancer among Egyptian women.

One of Egypt’s most recent and most celebrated approaches to combating breast cancer is Baheya – the Middle East’s first hospital specifically designed for the early detection of breast cancer, in addition to providing health services, such as diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, physical and radiation therapies and clinical pharmacy.

Furthermore, Baheya is also considered to be the first hospital in the region to provide social and psychological support, and home health assistance.

The cost of breast cancer treatment in Egypt is roughly EGP 100,000 per woman (approximately $US 12,500). However, at Baheya, treatment costs are covered by Resala – which is a non-profit charity based in Egypt.