06-07-2025
QCS unveils liver cancer awareness campaign
Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) has launched an awareness campaign titled 'Protect Yourself' this July, in conjunction with Liver Cancer Awareness Month. The campaign is taking place at Al-Hemaila Health Centre and Mesaimeer Health Centre, in collaboration with the Qatar Red Crescent. This initiative is part of QCS's ongoing efforts to reach various segments of society and raise awareness about one of the most common and impactful types of cancer.
The campaign particularly targets blue collared workers, who are considered among the most vulnerable groups to liver cancer risk factors. These include potential exposure to Hepatitis B or C viruses, or daily contact with hazardous chemicals in the workplace, which may increase the risk of developing liver cancer over time. The campaign emphasizes the importance of adopting preventive behaviours in the workplace, receiving necessary vaccinations, and undergoing regular medical checkups for early detection.
According to the National Cancer Registry published by the Ministry of Public Health – Qatar in 2020, liver cancer ranks fifth among the most common cancers in men in the country. This highlights the urgent need to intensify awareness and educational efforts, particularly among high-risk populations, and to provide them with the necessary information on prevention and early detection.
Nour Makkiyah, health educator at Qatar Cancer Society, stated: 'This campaign aligns with the Society's mission to enhance community awareness of cancer, with a focus on prevention and early detection. We have been keen to deliver our educational messages in multiple languages to ensure they are understood by all community members, especially workers from diverse nationalities. We've observed a strong engagement, reflecting the community's eagerness to access reliable health information.'
She added: 'The 'Protect Yourself' campaign is part of a series of year-round programs implemented by QCS, aimed at promoting a culture of prevention and early screening, which ultimately contributes to reducing cancer incidence and mortality in Qatar.'
The campaign covers several key areas, including: Definition and symptoms of liver cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain or swelling, nausea, and changes in urine or stool colour.
About risk factors she said 'include Hepatitis B or C infection, smoking, alcohol consumption, type 2 diabetes, physical inactivity, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Prevention methods, according to Makkiyah, include: 'Vaccination against Hepatitis B, avoiding the sharing of personal items, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, achieving a balanced weight, and engaging in regular physical activity. Routine medical checkups are also crucial, especially for high-risk individuals or those with a family or medical history of liver disease.'
