Come October, one of the most significant health issues affecting women worldwide gains a necessary momentum: Breast cancer. The worldwide statistics on this disease are deeply disturbing. For instance, in the United States alone, about one in eight women (about 12 per cent) will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, 5.8 million women will die in the next decade, with less-developed countries accounting for 3.9 million deaths. According to figures released by the Abu Dhabi Health Authority, 44 per cent of cancer cases diagnosed in women in the UAE comprise breast cancer.
These are galloping figures that presage a grim outcome that can be altered only through relentless awareness campaigns that encourage women to understand the importance of early screening, particularly if they have a family history of the disease. This awareness and action is integral to beating this disease. Which is why every campaign, initiative and programme on breast cancer has the power to make a difference.
The UAE’s constant endeavours are leading to positive outcomes. Breast cancer death rates have declined from 8.7 per 100,000 women in 2009 to five per 100,000 women in 2014, with late detection of the disease going down from 64 per cent in 2009 to 16 per cent in 2013. This kind of result-oriented strategy must be intensified. While the month of October plays a seminal role in breast cancer awareness drives, it is important that the tempo is maintained all through the year. It is equally critical that women understand the importance of taking charge of their health themselves.
