Bethlehem University’s Midwifery Department recently held its annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month event at the Tarek Ahmad Juffali Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences. The event, made possible by Dutch War Child Foundation, focused on women’s health, particularly breast cancer awareness, early detection, and prevention.
Targeting women in the Bethlehem Governorate, including marginalized communities like Arab ar-Rashayida, the event attracted approximately 60 participants. Midwifery students conducted clinical examinations under instructor supervision and led various activities. These students had received training from the Psycho-Social Counseling Center for Women as part of the “Together We Rise” project.
Ms. Fatima Madani, Chairperson of the Midwifery Department, highlighted the event’s educational activities, including the launch of a new women’s health educational center. The program featured personal story sharing, self-examination training for early breast cancer detection, and referrals to specialized healthcare providers.
While a planned mobile mammography unit from Augusta Victoria Hospital couldn’t attend due to technical issues, the hospital team will visit Arab ar-Rashayida to provide free mammograms.
A similar event was held on 9 October 2024, at Aida Refugee Camp, collaborating with the Aida Youth Center. The department plans to continue these activities at the Rowad Center.
Participants shared positive feedback:
“I learned so much about breast cancer and self-exams. I’ll definitely check myself regularly now.” – Amina, Arab ar-Rashayida
“Meeting other women with similar experiences made me feel supported and less alone.” – Fatima, Aida Refugee Camp
We’re grateful for our donors’ support in providing vital health services and education to women in our community. For more information on supporting our efforts, please visit this link.
