Speaking to reporters after opening a forum titled “The Other Side of Cancer Treatment,” the prince called for greater efforts by the media to educate the public on cancer.

The forum was organized by Zahra Breast Cancer Society in association with the research center at King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh and the Gulf Center to Combat Cancer.

Speaking at the forum, President of Zahra Society Princess Haifa Al-Faisal said the discussions at the forum would focus on psychological, social, humanitarian and professional aspects in the life of a cancer patient. “It will also enlighten patients about their medical and social rights,” she said.

Princess Haifa said NGOs could play a big role in conducting public health awareness programs and urged them to establish bridges of cooperation with government departments.

Later a documentary on Zahra’s health awareness programs was screened. Iman bint Saeed, in charge of education and training at the society, spoke about her organization’s efforts to promote a culture of early diagnosis among women to treat breast cancer.

The participants called for preparing a complete directory of cancer patients’ rights at government departments and organizations.

Meanwhile, the health department in Najran yesterday organized a forum on the early diagnosis of cancer at the Maternity and Children’s Hospital.

Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sharief, acting health director, stressed the importance of awareness programs to prevent the spread of cancer in society.

A workshop on the early diagnosis and protection against cancer was held during the forum.