Transforming Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Ras Al Khaimah
In the past few decades, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has undergone substantial economic, social, and cultural changes that have resulted in a significant transition from a traditional to a more Western lifestyle. Although the incidence and death rates from breast cancer are lower in the UAE compared to Western countries, there is a noticeable upward trend in both rates among Emirati women with more aggressive forms of the disease being noted, particularly among younger women. Effective, well- designed early detection and screening strategies with high participation rates are essential if the burden of breast cancer is to be reduced. However, these preventive strategies should be tailored to Emirati women’s needs and practices. Therefore, the current project was carried out in 2015-2016 among women living in Ras Al Khaimah, which explored attitudes towards breast health and breast cancer and examined mammographic density profiles in order to transform breast cancer diagnosis. This paper presents evidence-based recommendations for increasing breast cancer awareness, promoting education, and improving early detection practices.
