ABU DHABI, UAE - Since the inception of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month program in 1985, mammography rates have more than doubled in many countries for women 40 years of age or older and breast cancer deaths have declined.
This is exciting progress, but there are still women who do not take advantage of early detection opportunities and others who do not get screening mammograms or clinical breast exams at regular intervals. The main objective of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to increase public awareness about the disease, educate women on the importance of early detection, and encourage as many women as possible to get tested.
On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), which is managed by Cleveland Clinic, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Health Services - Company, has planned various activities during 05th 31st October 2008.
Dr. Scott Strong, Acting CEO of SKMC, stated:
'SKMC continues to be proactive in reaching out to the community with health information on some of the most common diseases in the UAE such as cardiovascular disease, breast cancer and diabetes. During the month of October, we will be raising awareness about Breast Cancer, the most common form of cancer among women.'
'SKMC is dedicated to increasing public knowledge about the importance of early detection of breast cancer, its diagnosis, and treatment. Significant progress in mammography technology is helping physicians diagnose the disease earlier and SKMC uses state of the art, fully digital technology to detect breast changes that could become cancerous. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the less likely a woman will need highly invasive and uncomfortable treatments, and the more likely she will be to survive the disease,' Dr Strong added.
He pointed out that Breast Cancer is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide and that includes the United Arab Emirates.
'SKMC offers comprehensive medical and surgical care of breast cancer by a dedicated team of experienced professionals working to international standards. The multidisciplinary Breast Clinic/Program of SKMC consists of a Breast Surgeon, Plastic Surgeon, Medical Oncologist, Nursing Team, Dietitian, and a Family Practitioner. We also have a support group for women with breast cancer called Ladies of Courage, which is chaired by Dr. Patricia Snozyk. The support group meets monthly to discuss issues that women with this disease confront in their daily lives. Dr. Snozyk and our Education Specialists have done a commendable job in organizing events this year for the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign,' Dr Strong stated.
'Early detection increases your chances of survival' states Dr. Ulo Ambus, Surgery Consultant at SKMC, who also pointed out that a monthly breast self examination could forewarn a woman of any change that might signal the need for a visit to a physician.
He stated, 'Mammography screenings are a woman's best chance for detecting breast cancer early. When coupled with new treatment options, mammography screenings can significantly improve a woman's chances of survival. Research is improving prevention, detection, and treatment options for breast cancer, and breast cancer death rates have begun to decline. Women should be reminded of the importance of mammography screening performed at regular intervals and therefore, an annual mammogram is recommended for women over 40 years of age.'
Dr. Ambus expressed the concern that the diagnosis amongst UAE women is often delayed and it is all too common to see women initially presenting with advanced disease. Early diagnosis allows for a better chance for cure. This can be achieved by regular examination and periodic mammography screening for women over 40 years. Women need to be assured that there is a great deal that can be done to help and not be afraid to seek out medical care early in the course of the disease. Treatment may be simple and conservation of normal breast tissue is much easier when the diagnosis is made early. If all women age 40 years and older took advantage of early detection methods - mammography plus clinical breast exam - breast cancer death rates would drop by up to 30%. Women can also take charge of their breast health by performing a breast self-exam every month and understanding their personal risks of the disease - and promptly reporting any breast change to their health care provider. Common to all women are daily lifestyle decisions that may affect breast cancer risk. These day-to-day choices involve factors such as poor diet, insufficient physical activity, and smoking. Besides possibly reducing breast cancer risk, lifestyle improvements represent smart steps for a healthier life, since they can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and many other chronic, life-threatening conditions.
Dr. Ambus reiterated that one of the most important aspects of early detection is that it significantly increases the chances of cure and normal survival. Consultation by a physician or surgeon experienced in breast disease, mammography, and ultrasound examination is recommended for investigation and diagnosis of a new breast symptom or finding. The most frequent presentation of breast cancer is a lump in the breast. Other changes of possible concern are recent nipple or skin in-drawing, or one-sided nipple discharge occurring without squeezing. Breast pain is usually due to benign causes, and related to changing hormone levels before a menstrual period.
He added, 'Women with no breast complaints or abnormalities should consider a baseline screening mammogram at age 40 years. These screening mammograms should be repeated every 1 to 2 years, depending on risk factors such as family history of breast cancer, or other features requiring close follow-up. Cancers detected with screening mammography are usually too small to feel on examination, can be treated without removing the breast, and have an excellent chance of cure and normal survival.'
Dr. Patricia Snozyk, Chair of the Ladies of Courage, SKMC's breast cancer support group notes, 'Women in the UAE should learn what is normal for them by doing regular breast self-examinations and any new breast symptom or finding should be reported to their doctor. In addition they should request a breast exam by a doctor, if it is not offered, as part of a regular annual health examination Women 40 years of age or older should go for a screening mammogram every 1 - 2 years. These steps can lead to earlier diagnosis and a greater chance of a successful outcome.'
SKMC Plans for the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign:
The following are SKMC activities during the Breast Cancer month:
1. A 'Pink Majlis' will be open in the main lobby of the Surgical Pavilion during the whole month. This is a place where people, especially women, can come and share their stories, connect to resources and support the cause of Breast Cancer Awareness. A number of talks and presentations are planned throughout the month in the Pink Majlis, including a series of talks (Wednesdays at noon) by women who have survived breast cancer. Posters, brochures, and other educational materials will be available at the Majlis.
2. SKMC will facilitate access to free screening mammograms during the awareness month at Al Bateen PHC Clinic and the Mammography department at the Surgical Pavilion of SKMC. Ladies with a new breast lump, nipple discharge or other breast symptoms should see a doctor so that appropriate investigations in this situation can be organized.
3. Breast cancer awareness outreach to staff and visitors will be going on throughout the month with various fundraising events. These will culminate on October 30 with a Wear it Pink Day. Every person wearing something pink in support of Breast cancer Awareness will receive a free pink cupcake from the cafeteria.
