Breast cancer occurs when mutations take place in genes that regulate cell growth. These mutations cause cells in the breast to divide and multiply uncontrollably, creating a mass of tissue (tumor).
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UAE and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. The best defense against breast cancer is early detection; when detected at an early stage, 90% of women will survive.
Breast cancer incidence increases significantly around age 40?
Whether or not you have a family history of breast cancer, yearly screening can be the difference between living freely and fighting for your life.
Get Screened
Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women in Abu Dhabi (12.1%)
In the UAE, women develop breast cancer at a younger age than the global average
90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history of breast cancer
Globally, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 14 seconds
60% of breast cancer cases in the GCC are diagnosed at advanced stages
Age is the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer
You are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer if you are overweight or a smoker
Move your fingers around your entire breast and underarm area. Using soap, move in a circular pattern from the outside to the center.
Stand with your arms by your side and then raise them over your head. Press your palms against your hips to flex your chest muscles. Look for signs of puckering or deflation.
Lie down with a pillow under your left shoulder and left arm behind your head. Apply varying pressure to your left breast and armpit using your right hand. Switch sides and repeat.
I experienced regular abscesses on my breast but did not screen regularly until October 2017, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when I underwent a mammogram that showed a mass on my breast. I was referred to SSMC, who performed a biopsy and discovered that I had second-stage breast cancer. Gathering courage and strength, I underwent treatment, starting with chemotherapy, followed by surgery and lastly radiation therapy. I am now cancer free and undergo routine follow-up screenings. My journey was tough, but remaining positive and faithful is the key to survival.
I have a family history of breast cancer and was experiencing back and foot pain for a long time. An MRI revealed I had cancer in my spine and upon further investigation, I was diagnosed with stage-four breast cancer. Dr. Aisha convinced me to keep fighting and that there is always hope; I am so grateful to have her as a part of my journey. A message to all women: screen yearly to detect lumps at an early stage. The few hours spent at the hospital for the appointment and screening may save you from undergoing a tough journey. It will save your life.
I noticed some discharge from my breast and ignored it, not thinking it was breast cancer given that I am healthy, active and do not have a family history. However, a biopsy revealed that I had first-stage breast cancer and underwent breast removal surgery, coming to the UAE to continue my therapy. SSMC's multidisciplinary team decided on the best treatment plan for me, and I'm now cancer-free for a year after hormonal therapy. I was very happy with my experience at SSMC; the doctors, nurses and coordinators were very helpful. A message to all women: never ignore any symptom or abnormality you feel on your breast and never live in denial that you cannot develop breast cancer.
Given that I do not have a family history, I never thought I would get breast cancer. However, after discovering a lump on my right breast, I underwent screening and was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, and received surgery under the guidance of Dr. Salem. Having undergone chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, I am now cancer-free. A message to all women: educate yourself and focus on your health and not only your career. Find the time and take care of yourself. Never give up and always have hope that you will fight it. I have been through a very tough journey, yet I kept going to work and encouraging positive thoughts. Cancer is not the end of the world and does not mean you will die. When there is a will, there is a way.
