Stories of triumph over breast cancer
RESIDENTS RECOUNT HOW THEY BEAT THE DREADED DISEASE WHICH REMAINS THE NUMBER ONE CANCER TO AFFLICT WOMEN IN THE UAE
Breast cancer continues to feature among the top five cancers in the UAE and remains the number one among women, say doctors.
The others include colorectal, cervix, uterus and lung cancers. As the country observes breast cancer awareness month, doctors say it is important to get women of all ages to go in for preventive screenings and encourage self-examination to combat its rising prevalence.
Oncologist Dr Houriya Kazim says breast cancer continues to have an alarming incidence in the UAE in particular and the Middle East in general. “About 22 per cent of all cancers seen in the UAE are breast cancer, accounting for a quarter of all cancers put together. Moreover, the median age of breast cancer in the UAE is around 45 years while in the USA and Western Europe it is around 62 years. This alarming trend stretches to the most of the MENA region and Indian Subcontinent and is a cause for concern.”
Dr Kazim advises women to go in for regular and preventive screenings. “In general, the earlier most cancers are caught, the better chance of a successful treatment outcome. Early diagnosis may also mean less treatment with no need for chemotherapy or radiotherapy,” said Dr Kazim.
It is expensive to battle breast cancer. While the Dubai Health Authority’s Basmah initiative provides insurance cover for the underprivileged women in the essential basic package, the average cost of cancer treatment ranges from Dh300,000 to Dh600,000 or more, said Dr Kazim. “Most of the mandated health insurances have a cap of Dh150,000 which does not even cover the smallest cancer.” Being alert, vigilant, regular in self examination and mammograms is the best option for all women.
In a moving tribute to the resilience of women who survived breast cancer, Ford Motor Company that has been running the ‘Warriors in Pink’ campaign in the Middle East for eight years created a documentary on these ‘models of courage’. The documentary with a powerful narrative is to be screened in Dubai on October 15. Gulf News asked three survivors to share their empowering and inspiring stories. 52, talent development manager, Ford Middle East and Africa, South African
With a hereditary history of breast cancer, Pedersen was very alert about her periodic check-ups, until in 2016, she missed her regular examination by a few months.
“I felt a lump on my left breast — I knew something was wrong immediately and went for my check and yes the mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy confirmed breast cancer and started chemotherapy immediately, before conducting surgery and radiotherapy due to its aggressive nature.
“2017 was a ‘big blur’ for me — the year’s treatment consisted of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and radiation. But I’m feeling amazing now. I’ve been through the worst and I’m in my first year of actual recovery. It’s been about 10 months now. I’m feeling very, very good!
“Last November upon receiving my first clearance check, I celebrated; bought chocolate-coated strawberries for the office and came home and celebrated with my husband. It was a lovely feeling. I feel, I’ve been given some more time to be with the people I love, and time to appreciate everything we’ve worked for.
“Having had cancer definitely changes one’s outlook on life. Personally, I don’t take things too seriously anymore, this includes career stress, or argument with the kids or husband.
“My advice to women is simple. Ladies need to be screened every year — even if they don’t feel it’s necessary. Statistics now indicate cancer is not discriminatory — age is not a factor — young women are now at risk too.”
Ghadeer Kunna |