Development and Implementation of Public Breast Cancer Awareness Campaigns in the UAE: A Ras Al Khaimah Case Study

The primary cause of most deaths due to cancer in United Arab Emirates is breast cancer. This is the country’s most common cancer in females. At this point, the participation of women based in UAE for breast cancer screenings stays low, with women diagnosed at advanced stages which negatively impacts disease prognosis and survival rates. More treatment options can be enabled if detected at an early stage, improving the conditions of survivorship and decrease the number of premature deaths. Health awareness campaigns and screening services are required to address the issues that prevent women in the UAE from having early screenings and apply focused methods of encouraging the participation of both Emirati and non-Emirati women. This policy paper explores women’s use of breast cancer screening practices and other women’s health services in the UAE, and also emirate’s ecosystem of awareness building and support impacting their behaviours. The paper includes the below points:

• The current encouragement and outreach strategies and campaigns being utilized
• The knowledge levels of health professionals on breast screening practices
• How organizations and institutions provide patient education.

Based on the perspectives of women, nurses, and representatives from health organizations, the policy paper concludes with recommendations for effective breast cancer public campaigns and improved breast screening participation. Click here to read more.

Source: Al Qasimi Foundation