Introduction
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UAE and, in 2020, it accounted for 38.8% of cases in women of all ages [1]. As the designated lead for cancer services within the SEHA network, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) has invested greatly into providing comprehensive and holistic care for our cancer patients, especially those with breast cancer, in the UAE.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, the team of locally and internationally trained physicians at SSMC work seamlessly together, supported by cutting-edge research and technologies, to provide integrated human-centric and compassionate care.
The need for early screening and the process – Dr. Holland Ravelle, consultant radiologist, chair of Clinical Imaging, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
“Detecting breast cancer early is critical because, when found early, it becomes easier to treat. Generally, we’ve found that women who live a healthy, active lifestyle and regularly undergo screening once they reach the age of 40 have higher chances of early detection and better treatment outcomes.
“When it comes to the screening process, doctors perform a mammogram, which is an X-ray picture of the breast. During this, a patient’s breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces and an X-ray captures black-and-white images, which are examined for signs of cancer.
“Over the last few years, SSMC has launched several campaigns and initiatives to increase regular screening in women over the age of 40 for earlier detection and treatment.”
Types of treatment and SSMC’s support group – Dr. Aisha Al Salami, consultant oncologist, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
“Treatment really depends on the patient, the type of breast cancer and stage of diagnosis, and it is common for patients with breast cancer to get more than one kind of treatment. These treatment options vary and can include a combination of surgery to remove cancer tissue and chemotherapy to shrink and kill cancer cells. There are also several types of therapies as well, such as hormonal therapy, which blocks cancer cells from getting the hormones they need to grow, biological therapy, which collaborates with the body’s immune system to help it fight cancer cells, and radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to kill cancerous cells.
“As one of the largest hospitals in the country, SSMC provides access to the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities available for comprehensive cancer care, especially breast cancer, bringing advanced and trusted quality care closer to cancer patients in the UAE and wider region.
“Last year, we also launched our very own breast cancer support group to bring women and their families together to hear their empowering stories and learn about their journeys. The sessions were a fantastic success and helped to drive the message of hope and strength to women fighting breast cancer here in the UAE.”
Surgical treatment options – Dr. Nahed Balalaa, consultant breast cancer surgeon, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
“Breast cancer is a life-changing diagnosis that not only has a physical effect on the body, but also a mental one. Providing holistic care means going beyond just treatment that eliminates cancer, but also addressing the outward effects of the disease as well.
“When it comes to surgery, there are several options. Depending on the patient’s condition, breast conservation can be utilized to keep the breast and only remove the cancerous tissue itself. Additionally, there is also the option of breast reconstruction, which includes two types: immediate reconstruction and delayed reconstruction. This type of surgery depends on the cancer stage, medical condition, and any additional therapies required after the surgery.”
Importance of public awareness and education – Farah, Emirati breast cancer survivor
“When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt lost because I had zero medical knowledge and information about the disease. I really did not know what to do. It wasn’t until later in my journey that I was able to learn more about the disease and treatment options, which was very useful when I was diagnosed with breast cancer once again and had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery.
“My message to women would be: Educate yourself and focus on your health because breast cancer is not the end of the world. Never give up and always have hope that you can beat it.”
Conclusion
The rise in breast cancer rates among women remains a pressing healthcare issue, and the team at SSMC is committed to elevating the provision of cancer care services and standards in the UAE. The hospital’s unique model of care and multidisciplinary approach means that it is better placed to be able to address the needs of patients and provide improved treatment outcomes.
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