UAE women too shy to go for breast cancer screening?
dubai — A top expert has urged women in the UAE to go for breast cancer screening voluntarily, as early detection saves lives.
Reports say, on an average one in 10 Arab girls born today will develop breast cancer at some point in her lifetime and the disease has become a leading killer among Arab women.
Dr László Tabár, one of the world’s leading experts in diagnosis of breast cancer, said: “Despite commendable efforts by the UAE health authorities, local screening capacity is actually low compared to other developed countries because of lack of demand from women themselves.”
“Too many women in the UAE and Arab region only seek examination and medical care when they feel something may be wrong. Unfortunately by then it may be too late for them to benefit fully from the advanced medical capabilities for treating breast cancer in this country. This is a tragedy for these women, their families, and the nation,” Dr Tabár added.
Dr Tabár was speaking at a seminar for doctors and radiologists at the Iranian Hospital in Dubai, the latest in a series he has led around the world to pass on his 40 years of experience in the field.
He recommends women between 40 and 54 years old to undergo screening at least every 18 months and preferably every year and that women over 55 should consider screening every 18 months.
Local screening capacity is actually low compared to other developed countries because of lack of demand from women themselves.
Dr László Tabár
Professor Emeritus of Radiology at Falun Central
Hospital,Sweden
Abu Dhabi has implemented a screening programme for national women, while the criterion varies from emirate to emirate.
Health Authority Abu Dhabi recommends women to be screened for breast cancer every two years after the age of 40.
Dr Asma Khammas, a specialist in radiology and Breast Imager at the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s National Breast Screening Programme, said: “Unfortunately, I see too many patients for the first time when their disease is already advanced.
“Thanks to the support of our leaders and their constant interest in spreading awareness of early detection and providing us with the most advanced technology, we are able to screen patients effectively.
“I believe the visit of Professor Tabár will have a positive impact on the future of breast imaging in the UAE.”
Dr Tabár is Professor Emeritus of Radiology at Falun Central Hospital in Sweden. His four decades of pioneering research have laid the foundation for early breast cancer detection.