KABUL: Struggling with a weak health care system, conflict-ravaged Afghanistan has just one diagnostic center for breast cancer in the entire country — built in Kabul nearly a year ago, Dr. Abdullah Maihan, head of the National Cancer Control Program at the Public Health Ministry, told Arab News.
Breast Cancer is the second major cause of death among Afghan women after childbirth. The latest research on the prevalence of breast cancer in Afghanistan, conducted by World Health Organization (WHO), in 2012, placed the country in the list of nations with highest number of deaths caused by breast cancer.
“With 40 [reported] cases in 100,000, Afghanistan is one of those countries where deaths due to breast cancer is highest in the world,” Maihan said.
“According to WHO estimates of 2012, except for Pakistan, Afghanistan has the highest number of (breast cancer) cases compared to Iran, China, India, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan,” he added.
A large number of people from the rural and conservative parts of the country are hesitant to take their female family members to the diagnostic center because the surgeons are mostly men. Many are unaware of the causes of the deadly disease, its symptoms and, more importantly, about the presence of the center.
Abdullah claims that based on WHO’s research estimates, “cancer cases and deaths are on the rise.”
Data from the Health Ministry shows that the three most deadly forms of cancer in Afghanistan during 2013 were stomach cancer, “tracheal, bronchus and lung cancer” and breast cancer, respectively.
Afghanistan imports 90 percent of the much needed medicine from abroad while Afghans spend tens of millions of dollars annually for receiving treatment, including medical procedures for cancer overseas, mostly in India, according to local press reports.
“Women most prone to death caused by breast cancer in Afghanistan are above the age of 80. The disease is least threatening to women between the ages of 15 and 19,” according to the data.
The government’s main tool to fight against the disease is public awareness. First Lady Bibi Gul (known previously as Raula Ghani) recently co-founded the Afghanistan Cancer Foundation in this regard to reflect the Afghan government’s focus on the issue.
The WHO, however, recently warned that the disease may increase twofold in Afghanistan over the next two years, reiterating its commitment to fight against breast cancer, according to the Daily Outlook paper.
“Out of 20,000 cancer patients in Afghanistan, 7,000 of these are breast cancer cases,” the Daily Outlook paper cited Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO representative in Afghanistan, as saying.
With just one breast cancer center, Afghanistan struggles to cope with the disease
With just one breast cancer center, Afghanistan struggles to cope with the disease
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Noria Furn’ bakery in Riyadh
- Noria Furn is a charming bakery with an early closing time that makes it ideal only for those who rise with the sun
Nestled in the lively Rayyan district of eastern Riyadh, Noria Furn is bakery that specializes in Middle Eastern breakfast staples.
Open from 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., it is an ideal spot for early birds eager to indulge in freshly baked goods, such as pies, mankoosha, falafel, and more.
The smell of freshly baked bread sets the tone as you enter, offering an appetizing and warm welcome.
On recent visits, I was impressed by the attentive and welcoming service, even when the outlet was bustling with customers.
Each dish I tried, from the taghmeesat shakshouka to the akawi cheese, was fresh, flavorful, and artfully presented. The cozy atmosphere, enhanced by the absence of background music, creates an inviting space for a leisurely meal.
However, there are areas for improvement. Prices are on the high side, which might not suit every budget, even if the quality largely justifies the cost.
I noticed their hot drinks, such as karak and tea, did not stay warm long enough. Using kettles with a base to maintain temperature could greatly enhance the overall experience.
While the tandoor bread was delightful, offering a wheat option would accommodate a wider range of dietary preferences.
Noria Furn is a charming bakery with an early closing time that makes it ideal only for those who rise with the sun. I look forward to returning and seeing how they continue to develop their offerings.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign’ burgers in Riyadh
- One of the highlights was the Sign box, which includes four burgers and four fries, ideal for gatherings
If you’re in Riyadh and looking for a burger spot that delivers on both taste and value, Sign should be on your list.
With eye-catching pink branding and loyal customers, it is clear they have tapped into a winning formula: simple, good food done right.
I tried their classic burger meal, which includes fries and a drink, and was genuinely surprised to get all that flavor for just SR24 ($6.40). The patty was juicy, the bun soft, and the sauce had the perfect tang without overpowering the rest of the ingredients. It felt well-balanced and satisfying, not greasy or heavy.
One of the highlights was the Sign box, which includes four burgers and four fries, ideal for gatherings. Sign uses locally sourced ingredients from Saudi farms, which is also a major plus — you can taste the difference in the quality of the meat and vegetables.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite through their drive-thru or sitting down with friends, it’s a spot that gets it right without overcomplicating things.
If there is one downside, it is the wait. The place is almost always packed — a sign (no pun intended) of how popular it has become. But if you are happy to queue, it is absolutely worth checking out.
For more, check their Instagram @signsa_
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Avindar Lounge’ in Riyadh
- The lights are dimmed every Tuesday night for a candlelit experience with a pianist playing live music, creating an atmospheric experience for guests
With four locations across the Kingdom’s capital, Avindar Lounge offers a space where you can enjoy lush greenery and good food.
The lounge I visited is located on the northeast side of Riyadh and includes a separate section for smokers.
The menu is diverse and appeals to different tastes, so you can sample anything from Middle Eastern kebabs to pasta and burgers.
The lights are dimmed every Tuesday night for a candlelit experience with a pianist playing live music, creating an atmospheric experience for guests.
I tried the mixed appetizer, which was flavorful and memorable. It included hummus, tabouli, dolma, and baba ghanoush.
And while I am generally not a fan of sweet beverages, I genuinely enjoyed their hot chocolate, which was not overwhelmingly sweet or creamy.
However, considering the portion sizes, which are enough for one person, customers might find the prices a bit high.
But the music and bird sounds, paired with the lounge’s colorful and cozy interior, make Avindar a refreshing spot for dining or coffee with friends.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Dakkat Haretna’ restaurant in Riyadh
Located in the bustling Al-Munsiyah neighborhood of Riyadh, Dakkat Haretna is a charming eatery that captures the essence of Saudi Arabia cuisine.
The interior is adorned with Qatt Asiri art, traditional Saudi motifs that resonate with the spirit of the region. The windows, designed in the Hijazi roshan style, add to the charming appeal of the space which is cozy and family friendly.
Behind the menu is chef Douha Al-Otaishan, whose vision brings to life dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Saudi Arabia.
I sampled the beetroot salad, which had refreshing ingredients, complemented by feta cheese balls and crisp lettuce, that set the stage for the main course.
The marqooq beef and “happiness kabsa,” Al-Otaishan’s signature dish, were both memorable. I polished off the flavorful marqooq in no time.
The kabsa, with its tender chicken, was delightful despite the rice being a tad drier than what I usually enjoy. The accompanying tangy red sauce elevated the dish by adding a burst of flavor.
Other notable options for those wishing to explore Saudi cuisine are jareesh, qursan, and kubaiba Hail.
Their breakfast menu is equally enticing, providing classics including tamees, foul, and shakshooka, available from 7 a.m.
If you enjoy cooking and want to recreate Saudi dishes at home, the restaurant also offers the chef’s blends of spices.
With attentive service, fair prices, and a calm ambiance free of noisy music, Dakkat Haretna is a comfortable place to enjoy traditional dishes or try something new.
Whether you are familiar with Saudi cuisine or just curious, it is a spot worth visiting.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Olala Roastery’ – coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia
- The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design
Olala Roastery is one of the most recognizable names among local coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia.
I tried two of their signature boxes: Nsahsah (Wake Me Up) and Mw Eadi (Not Your Usual), each with labeled blends and a colorful unboxing experience.
The Not Your Usual box featured two exceptional beans — vista and roza. Vista quickly became a favorite, thanks to its smooth body, light acidity, and a finish that felt both clean and vibrant. It was the kind of coffee that stood out from the first cup. I finished it so quickly — it was the best I have ever tried.
Roza, with its subtle fruity tones, offered a more delicate profile that worked beautifully for slower mornings.
The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design.
One drawback, however, was the inconsistency between the flavor notes written on some of the packaging and the actual taste of the coffee. The flavor profiles were not as clear or defined as described, which may leave some drinkers guessing — especially those who choose beans based on specific expectations.
Still, Olala Roastery delivers fresh, well-roasted coffee wrapped in a full sensory experience, making it a creative and proudly Saudi addition to the specialty coffee scene.
For more information, check @olala.roastery on Instagram.
