Watch: Why popular Arab singer Elissa rang a bell at Arab Health 2024 in Dubai

Commonly known as Elissa, Elissar Zakaria Khoury, is one of the most successful singers in the Arab world who reached one billion views on YouTube.

The Lebanese pop star, a cancer warrior, launched the initiative by ceremonially ringing the bell at the BMC booth at Arab Health, becoming an inspiration for those facing a cancer diagnosis.

Ringing a bell traditionally celebrates the joyous moment of completion of treatment in cancer patients.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, and senior executives and doctors of BMC, attended the launch.

By addressing the challenges posed by the projected global cost of cancer of $25.2 trillion between 2020 and 2050, Ring for Life seeks to raise awareness and promote solidarity among patients, healthcare professionals and the broader community. The initiative propagates the latest advances and advanced care that are reshaping the oncology landscape.

Interacting with her fans and other booth visitors, Elissa shared words of encouragement for cancer patients. She highlighted the importance of raising awareness about cancer in the Arab world, particularly given the high incidence rates, especially of breast cancer.

Recalling his journey with cancer, he said: “Considering my own story, along with that of my sister and father, who succumbed to cancer, I firmly believe that this disease can be successfully treated if detected early. “Regular screening for women with breast cancer is incredibly important, given the significantly high cure rates compared to other types of cancer.”

Elissa considers herself lucky to have discovered her cancer early, even though she had a difficult time learning about her diagnosis. Initially, as a public figure, she decided to keep her illness private. Only after completing her treatment and recovery did she decide to use her experience to raise awareness about the disease within the community.

“The psychological support of family and friends for cancer patients is very important. The strength and encouragement of loved ones play a crucial role in helping people overcome the challenges of the disease,” Elissa said.