There has been a steady increase in the incidence of breast cancer in Saudi Arabia in the last few decades. According to available data, the number of new cases of cancer in Saudi Arabia is 2,741 including about 19.9% of breast cancer in women that is ranked first figures. As this number continues to increase each year, Mazola, one of the pioneers of healthy and quality food products in the Middle East, increased consciousness on this subject for the Breast Cancer Awareness Month last month. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to detect the disease in its early stages. In the United States, 50% of new breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 65 years, while in the Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, it usually occurs in women at the age of 52. As part of Mazola's endeavor to increase awareness, the brand held an event on Oct, 28, 2015 at the Park Hyatt in Jeddah. The event was in partnership with the Women Empowerment Group (WE Group), 10 KSA, and Zahra Breast Cancer Association, as an initiative to shed light on the topic of breast cancer and spread awareness on the subject. WE Group was founded by Sahar Madani, a humanitarian on a mission to empower women across the Middle East. She is known for her charitable work across the region, including aid for breast cancer patients. The third partner for the event was, The Zahra Breast Cancer Association, the brainchild of Soad Bint Amer, and an organization that aims to increase and spread awareness among women across the country for early detection, prevention and treatment of the disease, and cooperate with women diagnosed with breast cancer on a step-by-step basis for treatment and ultimate recovery. The event was attended by people from across KSA and by some renowned personalities who formed the panel for the evening. This included the likes of Psychologist Dr. Hala Aseel. Hatun Madani, the brand ambassador for Mazola, also spoke at the event and was a part of the panel. She stressed upon the importance of healthy eating and how the healthiest dishes can be made delicious. Other members of the panel was Reema bint Bandar, a Saudi Arabian princess entrepreneur. Mazola has pioneered healthy eating in the region and diet is thought to be partly responsible for about 30% to 40% of all cancers. While no food or diet can fully prevent breast cancer, properly cooked food with the right ingredients can keep your body at its healthiest by boosting immunity. This helps keep your risk for breast cancer as low as possible. Experts recommend avoiding processed foods and switching to more natural and organic alternatives to help your body be healthier and protected against cancer. "Our philosophy of From the Heart of Nature has always promoted healthier and more natural food habits. And on this occasion of breast cancer awareness month, we want people to remember the importance of a healthy diet as part of the regime in preventing cancer", said Simon Gottfried – Vice President at Basateen Food, the brand owner of Mazola in the Middle East and North Africa. "Our award winning product range is made using the most organic methods and the purest ingredients, which are ideal for healthy cooking", he added. Mazola's all natural products enable people to switch to healthy cooking without compromising on taste. The event was a unique initiative, especially for an oil brand like Mazola. But a philosophy like ‘from the heart of nature', the brand will continue to deliver quality products and raise awareness on the subject of breast cancer.
