In a groundbreaking public health initiative, pharmaceutical giant Novartis has partnered with the Friends of Cancer Patients’ Pink Caravan to bring breast cancer awareness and screening services directly to workplaces across the United Arab Emirates. This corporate-health sector collaboration represents a strategic shift in cancer detection approaches, moving beyond traditional healthcare settings into the daily environments of working professionals.
The comprehensive program has already engaged major employers across telecommunications, aviation, and media sectors, providing hundreds of employees with accessible health screenings during work hours. While launched during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the campaign maintains year-round operations, reflecting a sustained commitment to early detection rather than seasonal awareness.
Aisha Abdulla Al Mulla, Director of Friends of Cancer Patients, emphasized the critical nature of this initiative: ‘Breast cancer constitutes over one-third of all female cancer cases in the UAE, presenting a significant healthcare challenge that demands collaborative solutions. By integrating education and screening into workplace settings, we’re breaking down barriers to early detection.’
Medical experts note the particular urgency in the UAE context, where breast cancer manifests at younger average ages and more advanced stages compared to Western populations, with approximately 20% of cases occurring in women under 40. Dr. Aydah Al Awadhi, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Division Chair at Sheikh Shakbout Medical City, praised the initiative for addressing cultural stigmas while providing essential health resources.
Among participating organizations, telecommunications leader e& has implemented on-site testing for its workforce. Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer at e&, stated: ‘Employee wellbeing forms the cornerstone of our corporate culture. This collaboration eliminates access barriers and empowers our colleagues to make informed health decisions.’
Mohamed Ezz Eldin, GCC Cluster Head at Novartis, explained the strategic vision: ‘Transformative progress requires both awareness and accessibility. By integrating detection protocols into employee wellness programs, we’re ensuring breast health receives priority alongside professional responsibilities.’
Novartis has announced plans to expand these workplace health initiatives throughout 2026, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to fostering proactive health management across the UAE’s corporate landscape.