FOCP committed to changing cancer stigma into solidarity

Cancer stigma persists worldwide as a deeply rooted social challenge, driving discrimination and exclusion that profoundly impacts patients and communities.

Globally, cancer is responsible for nearly one in six deaths, with up to 70% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries; settings where stigma is often highest and a major barrier to prevention, early detection, and treatment.

This stigma manifests in many forms; and highlighted in recent international research, efforts to measure, understand, and combat cancer stigma remain limited.

Recognising the great importance of removing stigma and creating awareness and community, the Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) in Sharjah is spearheading a qualitative shift in societal discourse about the disease and is transforming culture into a tool for empowerment and psychological support, rather than fear and isolation.

Drawing inspiration from global experiences that turn pain into hope and suffering into tales of human triumph.

FOCP’s cultural approach holds particular significance given the context of the United Arab Emirates, which is home to over 200 nationalities; and this rich cultural diversity is reflected in varying societal perspectives on cancer.

In some communities, patients conceal their diagnosis for fear of others’ judgment, while in others, collective confrontation of the disease is considered a familial and societal duty, leading to unwavering care and support.

In Rwanda, for instance, community awareness has been a cornerstone in dealing with diseases, including cancer. A group of widows in the capital, Kigali, established a cooperative project named “Fabric of Hope,” which blends psychological support with traditional textile craftsmanship. Each fabric piece tells a story of survival and victory over illness, and this initiative celebrates overcoming hardships, conveying the message that healing requires not only physical treatment but also partnership and solidarity.

In Japan, dealing with illness often involves a degree of silence and privacy, where public discussion of cancer is seen as an intrusion into personal space.

However, many have broken this silence, like renowned Japanese broadcaster Masako Wakamiya who heroically defied the disease at the age of eighty, founding a digital awareness initiative for the elderly that challenged stereotypes about frailty, cancer, and aging.

In Afro-Caribbean cultures, such as in Trinidad and Tobago, art and music serve as expressions of suffering and triumph.

Survivor Janet Joseph organised an annual festival called “Melodies of Survival,” where stories of cancer survivors are shared through musical and poetic performances before thousands of people. This unique cultural model transforms pain into a celebration of life.

Rashid Al Ameeri, Head of Corporate Communication at FOCP, emphasises that shifting the general culture surrounding cancer from silence and fear to awareness and openness would not have been possible without the combined efforts of institutions and the cultural values of society.

Elaborating on this, he stated: “Since our inception, FOCP has been guided by a comprehensive vision for the cultural and psychological empowerment of the patient. We aspire to build a supportive and nurturing environment for patients, survivors, their families, and caregivers, encouraging early detection and adherence to treatment. We believe the battle against cancer begins with the language we use about the disease, and the way we view those fighting it; and within this positive setting, treatment, care, and empowerment can be far more effective.”

FOCP implements targeted efforts like their Pink Caravan initiative; which conducts free screenings and culturally resonant awareness sessions via mobile clinics touring communities nationwide; and the Kashf early detection campaign, delivering education through community and cultural groups.

The association further strengthens this foundation by providing specialised training for healthcare professionals and the public on culturally sensitive cancer approaches, and developing multilingual educational materials tailored to diverse populations. These collective actions position FOCP as a pioneer in embedding proactive cancer understanding within the UAE’s societal fabric, making significant strides in battling stigma and bringing about positive change.