FOCP reaffirms year-round commitment to cancer patients

February 26, 2026 / 5:30 PM

Sharjah24: The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has reaffirmed that combating cancer requires sustained, year-round support rather than seasonal campaigns, underscoring its ongoing commitment to patients and their families throughout their journey.

While many initiatives intensify during awareness months, FOCP’s approach integrates financial assistance, early-detection campaigns, community engagement, and psychological support within a coordinated framework that spans prevention through recovery.

In 2025, FOCP provided financial assistance to more than 500 cancer patients, allocating over AED 10.4 million for treatment and related needs. During Ramadan, its annual Zakat campaign becomes a central fundraising pillar, directing donations towards treatment costs and broader financial and social support to help stabilise patients’ lives.

Pink Caravan drives early detection

Through the Pink Caravan campaign, FOCP delivered 19,791 free breast cancer screenings across the UAE in 2025. The initiative operated 11 fixed clinics alongside mobile and mini clinics in more than 80 locations nationwide. Over 12,000 people participated in community events, and nearly 3,000 attended public awareness sessions during Pink October. More than 30 suspected cases were identified for further medical evaluation.

A total of 53 entities registered teams to benefit from the campaign’s services, delivered in partnership with six medical partners and supported by 11 sponsors. FOCP expanded access by adding two sponsored mobile clinics and introducing a digital queuing and appointment system.

Psychological care and partnerships

FOCP organised 36 moral support events in collaboration with 50 public and private institutions, reaching over 2,000 patients and caregivers. In 2025, more than 400 volunteers contributed over 5,000 hours across 150 activations.

Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, said programmes are developed in consultation with specialist physicians and informed by patient feedback to ensure they remain responsive and effective.

FOCP also strengthened transparency by publishing detailed annual Zakat campaign results. Through its Locks of Hope initiative, more than 2,000 hair donations enabled the provision of wigs to over 20 patients.

A continuous mission

FOCP emphasised that meaningful impact depends on sustained community engagement and strategic partnerships, not on seasonal momentum. The organisation continues to expand its collaborations to ensure comprehensive, long-term support for cancer patients and their families.