BIRMINGHAM, Mich., June 21, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA) and its largest chapter, NAAMA Michigan, will stage its 6th Walk for Women's Cancer at the Detroit Zoo on Sunday, October 3, 2010. In collaboration with the American Cancer Society, NAAMA's goal is to increase awareness of the many types of cancers that affect women, how to minimize cancer risk and increase screenings, primarily in the Arab American population.
Dr. Hassan Fehmi, head of the Walk steering committee, said, "We believe that there is a lack of awareness in the Arab American population and the general population about women's cancers in addition to breast cancer and the risk factors that impact women's cancers. Among some Arab Americans, there is a stigma attached to women's cancers. By our Walk, NAAMA is trying to educate people on the resources available for screening, information and services. That's why we are delighted to be collaborating with the American Cancer Society as our mission partner for the Walk."
Nancy Yaw, chief executive director of the American Cancer Society's Great Lakes Division, said, "NAAMA is providing a great community service by heightening awareness that there are several different types of cancers that affect women in addition to breast cancer, such as ovarian and other gynecological cancers. The American Cancer Society supports NAAMA's effort to ultimately increase the number of cancer screenings because we know early detection saves lives."
NAAMA Walk for Women's Cancer will increase awareness around the prevention of women's cancers; build awareness of risk factors and activities that can mitigate cancer; increase screening of women's cancers among Arab American women and women in general; and engage Arab American medical professionals in a community-based event to build awareness among the general population of their compassion, effectiveness and commitment to good health.
NAAMA is providing opportunities for corporate and organizational sponsors who wish to reach the Arab American and the women's market. NAAMA invites individuals and groups to sign up to walk one mile around the Detroit Zoo and stay to enjoy the animals and the surroundings following the Walk. Also, NAAMA is seeking volunteers for Walk Day.
For more information or to register or sponsor the NAAMA Walk for Women's Cancer, please contact the NAAMA National Office at 248-646-3661 or naama@naama.com. Or visit www.cancerwalk.org.
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, NAAMA is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, educational and humanitarian organization whose members are of Arab descent, have close affinity with individuals of Arab origin or demonstrate a commitment to its mission and organizational objectives. Headquartered in Birmingham, MI, NAAMA has 24 chapters across America comprising physicians, dentists, pharmacists, medical researchers, scientists, teachers and other healthcare professionals. The NAAMA Michigan is the largest chapter in the Association.