A charity run in support of women facing cancer was held in Tashkent | Report

Charity Run Supporting Women Facing Cancer Held in Tashkent | Report

The PINK UNITY RUN 2026 charity run took place in the capital's Ashgabat Park, timed to coincide with Pink October, the breast cancer awareness month.

The event was initiated by Diana Bakman, who herself survived breast cancer and understands from her own experience how important timely medical care and the support of loved ones are. It was her idea that formed the basis of the charity initiative, which annually unites people around the topics of women's health and mutual support.

The run was organized by Diana Bakman jointly with Deepanwell in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Uzbekistan and the Khokimiyat of Yashnabad District, with official support from the Tashkent City Health Department and the Research Center for Public Health Analysis.

The charity run brought together about 450 people — women facing oncological diseases, their loved ones, medical specialists, volunteers, and ordinary residents of Tashkent who came to support this important initiative.

Each of them had their own story and their own reason for coming, but all were united by one thing — the desire to support women facing breast cancer, express solidarity, and show that no one should be left alone in the fight against the disease.

Breast cancer remains one of the serious public health challenges.

According to international estimates, about 2.4 million new cases of breast cancer were detected worldwide in 2024, and about 694 thousand people died from this disease.

In Uzbekistan, breast cancer also holds a leading position among oncological diseases in women.

Every October is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. The international "Pink October" campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of early disease detection, timely seeking of medical help, and support for women facing the diagnosis.

In Uzbekistan, in accordance with Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PP-402 dated November 22, 2024, the State Program for Cervical and Breast Cancer Control for 2025–2030 is being implemented.

The program provides for the development of screening, early diagnosis, improvement of medical services, and raising public awareness.

PINK UNITY RUN 2026 brought together charity, physical activity, medical education, and community solidarity.

Participants were offered distances of 3, 5, and 10 kilometers, which could be completed by running or walking. Alternative formats of participation were provided for people undergoing treatment and families with children.

Medical specialists worked on the territory of the park, offering free consultations and examinations, including ultrasound diagnostics, mammography, as well as heart and vision examinations.

In a specially organized Health Corner, participants could receive information on disease prevention, a healthy lifestyle, and the importance of regular medical check-ups.

The program also included musical and dance performances, interactive events, and gift raffles from partners.

One of the key goals of the run was to raise charitable funds to provide medical assistance to women in need of surgical treatment.

This year, the initiative was supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Uzbekistan.

For over 30 years, UNFPA has been working in the country, supporting national efforts to protect reproductive health, strengthen the healthcare system, and expand access to quality medical services.

For the second year, UNFPA, together with national partners, has been assisting in the implementation of Presidential Resolution No. PP-402 by conducting information and educational events on the prevention and early detection of breast cancer and cervical cancer.

As part of PINK UNITY RUN 2026, UNFPA provided organizational and information support, including helping to attract young volunteers and conduct educational activities.

PINK UNITY RUN 2026 became a symbol of unity, mutual support, and shared responsibility for health.

For some participants, this run was an opportunity to support a loved one. For others, it was a way to express solidarity with women who are undergoing treatment or have already overcome the disease.

Every kilometer covered, every step taken became a symbol of support, hope, and unity.

The run once again served as a reminder that behind every diagnosis there is a human being — with their own dreams, plans, family, and future. And timely diagnosis, attention to one's own health, and the support of others can make a huge difference.