October is breast cancer awareness month and so the Breast Cancer Foundation in Egypt (BCFE) will be holding a number of events to encourage women to visit doctors early and prevent late diagnoses.

It's a problem in Egypt, says Mohamed Shaalan, head of the BCFE, where various social and cultural obstacles prevent women from getting regular check-ups.

Shaalan, who also directs the National Cancer Institute's early-detection unit, says that the BCFE's mission is to address these barriers – which is why the foundation is holding a series of events this month under the title of "Beat Cancer, Spread Hope, Find the Cure".

The aim is to encourage women to know what's normal and what's not regarding breast changes, and the importance of early diagnosis.

The events also celebrate the power of women, and the stories of courageous fights of survivors in the battle against breast cancer.

Throughout the events, people are encouraged to wear the symbol of the pink ribbon to raise awareness, lift stigmas and open dialogue.

Programme:

Saturday, 18 October: Pink Party for the Cure at Marriott Hotel in Zamalek , 9am to 3pm, with Zumba dancing, ladies-only

Thursday, 23 October: The Greece Rowing Club hosts the second Punt Roma Party, where Rotary members and VIPs are invited to attend a lecture by Dr. Mohammed Shaalan

Saturday, 25 October: Third-annual 3-km Palm Hills Curves Walk, with prizes to winners

Saturday, 1 November: Kattameya Heights Golf Resort. Rally for the Cure event to bring together golf lovers for a round – and to learn more about breast cancer