Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 2, 2017:  Dubai Health Authority (DHA) experts advocated the importance of early detection in the battle against breast cancer.

Dr Moaza Hattawi , General Surgeon at Dubai Hospital and Founder of Pink Ride Hope, 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.  If breast cancer is detected early on, the survival rate is more than 98 per cent, however if the disease is detected in the advanced stage, survival is only 27 per cent.”

Dr Hattawi 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.

Dr Nada Al Mulla, family medicine specialist at DHA 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.”

Dr Khawla Al Hajaj, family medicine specialist at DHA added that Dubai Hospital and DHA primary healthcare centres including Al Barsha, Nad Al Hamar and Al Mizhar offer mammogram screenings. “ “Early detection is vital in order to minimize complications and save lives.”