Medical statistics collected by the UAE’s annual breast cancer awareness campaign, Pink Caravan Ride 2017 revealed that almost 7,500 residents and citizens got tested during the ten-day campaign held in March this year, of which 12 cases of malignancy were reported, the highest in the campaign's history.

This is partly owed to the large visitor turnout this year, something that is attributed to the campaign’s growing outreach in every edition, said campaign organisers, Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP).

"Through its four-pronged strategy or the four routes – Equine, Medical, Events and Fundraising – the Pink Caravan Ride has spread hope and cancer awareness in the country for seven years. This year, the ride was made possible by 92 equines who covered 200+ kilometres across the seven emirates; by 150+ volunteers who worked selflessly for the campaign’s success; 123 volunteering clinics that offered free examinations and mammograms; and many others who have supported us dedicatedly," said Reem BinKaram, Head of Pink Caravan Steering Committee.

"Our hard work is truly rewarded when we see husbands bring their wives in for check-ups and vice versa, when young college students ask how they can volunteer, when the society’s elite make big donations that are used for research and improving healthcare. The fight against cancer of any kind is stronger when entire communities are involved. Under the directives and support of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Founder and Royal Patron of the FoCP, and Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, I am pleased to report that Pink Caravan Ride has travelled a long way to bring the nation together for an important cause," BinKaram added.