Dubai: Hundreds of cyclists and bikers dressed in pink took part in the Dubai Pink Cancer Ride Campaign on Friday, which aimed to raise awareness on breast cancer.

Salem Bin Lahej, director of the Moussadah (help) committee at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), said around 1,000 cyclists and 200 motorcyclists took part in the event, which also raised funds for underprivileged patients affected by breast cancer.

“The registration for the event was free, but the sponsors donated to the cause. Cyclists rode for 16km, and riders on motorbikes rode for 20-25km,” he said.

The parade took place along Jumeirah Beach Road, from 7.30am. People from all walks of life were dressed in pink, in support of breast cancer awareness, and decorated their bicycles and motorcycles for the occasion.

The WHO World Cancer Report revealed that there were 568 breast cancer incidences in the UAE in 2012.

“Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers and early detection is absolutely essential to save lives and minimise the trauma and complications patients go through,” said Salim Bin Lahej, Director of the Moussadah (help) committee at the DHA.

Bin Lahej said the campaign, which includes the parade, aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screening.

After the parade, he said groups of people were recognised for their participation.

“The categories included the biggest participating family, best dressed, best bicycle and best motorcycle decoration,” he said.

Dr Dalia Al Shourbagy, senior specialist oncologist at Dubai Hospital, said having such campaigns where funds and awareness are raised are vital as they remind women to get checked.

“With advances in science, there are high chances of curing the disease with minimum invasion through early detection. In fact, if breast cancer is detected early on, the survival rate is 92 per cent, but if the disease is detected in the advanced stage, survival is only 27 per cent,” she said.

Women should get their first mammogram done at 40, and then get checked every year after that.

“Those with a family history of breast cancer should begin screening earlier. If a woman has a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, she should opt for yearly screening 10 years before the age of her relative’s diagnosis. However, she should start regular self-exams earlier.”

She added that Dubai Hospital and DHA primary health-care centres including Al Barsha, Nad Al Hamar and Al Mizhar offer mammogram screenings.

“My advice to women is to be in-charge of their health, to be proactive and undergo health screenings and mammograms according to their age or risk factors.”

The campaign was also supported by Dubai Sports Council, Union Cooperative Society UAE, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police.