UAE: Early Cancer Detection Program!
The Emirates Oncology Association, affiliate of AstraZeneca to support screening and treatment of cancer in UAE. The project aims at strengthening tumor early identification and reducing mortality from cancer in the UAE. Focusing on lung , prostate and breast cancer, the program advances the government’s target of raising cancer mortality by almost 18 percent by 2021.
The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding under the banner “United Against Cancer” to increase public awareness of the importance of early cancer detection. They will also explore policy recommendations to increase the number of people undergoing screenings and, crucially, to enhance the referral process and support available to those diagnosed with positive results. Every year around 4,500 new cancer cases are diagnosed in the UAE. According to the UAE Oncology Task Force, there is only one lung cancer screening service within the UAE, and among others more commonly available, such as breast cancer screening, evidence indicates that prevalence may be as small as 6.7 percent,1 while survival rates for certain forms of cancer are considered to be increased when diagnosed early. The collaboration between EOS and AstraZeneca, through increased awareness of early detection, access to screening and improved data availability, will lead to earlier identification of more cancer cases, leading to faster treatment initiation and improved outcomes. Although mandating screenings is not considered realistic, a policy change requiring medical coverage for approved cancer screenings may offer flexibility as well as ensure that prevention campaigns align with the economic, religious and cultural diversity of the multicultural community of the UAE.
A series of Patient Summits, an educational campaign that offers health professionals the ability to learn directly from people with lung , breast, and ovarian tumors, will help the awareness programme. The first Patient Summit will take place in August 2020 and will reflect on the disease’s frequently underestimated emotional impact, with the goal of encouraging the participants to set up a needs-based assistance system and discuss means of improving the everyday quality of life of patients with cancer.
