Dubai Health Authority discusses early detection of breast cancer.

Dubai, UAE, October 6, 2016:  Dubai Health Authority (DHA) experts advocated the importance of early detection in the battle against breast cancer during the weekly #smart_clinic.

Information was disseminated through the Authority’s Twitter page (@DHA_Dubai) Instagram account and via Periscope.

Dr Dalia El Shourbagy, senior specialist oncologist at Dubai Hospital, said: “Breast cancer is the top cancer in women worldwide and is increasing particularly in developing countries, the majority of cases of which are diagnosed in late stages.  According to the WHO World Cancer Report, there were 568 breast cancer incidences in the UAE in 2012. However, with advances in science there are high chances of curing the disease with minimum invasion through early detection.  In fact, if breast cancer is detected early on, the survival rate is 92 per cent, however if the disease is detected in the advanced stage, survival is only 27 per cent.”

Dr Arfan Alawa, consultant surgeon Dubai hospital highlighted that early treatment is the best way to preserve breasts, battle the cancer and is also helpful for those women who need partial or total breast reconstruction as early diagnosis gives plastic surgeons several clinical options to preserve the natural shape and function of the breasts.

El Shourbagy said that the first mammogram should take place at 40 years of age and every year thereafter. “Those with a family history of breast cancer should begin screening earlier. If a woman has a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age; she should opt for yearly screening 10 years before the age of her relative’s diagnosis. However, she should start regular self-exams earlier.”

She added that BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes can cause breast cancer and ovarian cancer among women as well as prostate and pancreatic cancer for men. Therefore, those who have this gene must strictly undergo periodic tests and consultations from the age of 35 years and lifelong thereafter. “This is particularly important for those who have been previously screened for lump(s) in the breast(s) and those with family history of breast cancer especially among first-degree relatives,” added El Shourbagy.

She added that Dubai Hospital and DHA primary healthcare centres including Al Barsha, Nad Al Hamar and Al Mizhar offer mammogram screenings. “ My advice to women is to be in-charge of their health, to be proactive and undergo healthy health screenings and mammograms according to their age or risk factors. “Early detection is vital in order to minimize complications and save lives,” added El Shourbagy.