Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie PTUK, in cooperation with the Tulkarm Directorate of Health, organized an awareness workshop titled “Pink October: Early Detection is Life”, aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer and methods of prevention. The workshop was attended by a large number of female staff and students and jointly organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs, the Student Council, the Student Youth Movement, and the College of Allied Medical Sciences. The workshop was opened by Ms. Najah Alwan, Head of the Counseling Department at the Deanship of Student Affairs, who welcomed the attendees and highlighted the importance of promoting breast cancer prevention and regular screening among women. She emphasized that such initiatives reflect the university’s social responsibility in fostering health awareness among students and staff. Dr. Haneen Milhem from the Ministry of Health delivered a detailed presentation explaining the nature of breast cancer, its risk factors—including genetics, lifestyle, and hormonal changes—and the role of nutrition and physical activity in prevention. She noted that early detection remains the cornerstone of effective treatment, with cure rates exceeding 90% when diagnosed at an early stage. Dr. Milhem also discussed available medical screenings, such as clinical examinations and mammography, stressing the importance of regular checkups for women over 40 or as recommended by their physicians. Dr. Ola Al-Wazni, Head of the Health Education Department, conducted a practical demonstration on how to perform breast self-examinations at home, outlining each step in detail—from visual inspection to manual palpation in different positions. She emphasized that while self-examination does not replace professional medical screening, it is an essential habit that helps detect early changes and encourages timely medical consultation. Student representative Masa Barham, speaking on behalf of the Student Youth Movement and the Student Council, expressed her gratitude to the university and the Deanship of Student Affairs for enabling student engagement in awareness activities. She affirmed that the Council seeks to play an active role in initiatives that promote student and community well-being, particularly in areas of public health and awareness. The workshop concluded with scientific and technical presentations by students from the Departments of Medical and Laboratory Sciences, Artificial Intelligence, Diagnostic Imaging, and Biology. The students highlighted the intersection of medical knowledge and technology in cancer detection, underscoring the importance of integrating scientific understanding with community awareness to foster a healthier society.

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