Arab Health 2025: AI-powered breast cancer screening launched for teachers in UAE

Dubai: Emirates Health Services (EHS) has launched an AI-powered breast cancer screening programme for teachers in the UAE. The announcement was made at the EHS pavilion at Arab Health 2025 in Dubai on Monday.

The programme is free of charge for teachers in schools under the Ministry of Education in Dubai and northern Emirates.

Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Amina Al Jasmi, Director of Radiology and Consultant Radiologist at EHS, said the innovative initiative - billed as the first of its kind in the region - is designed to bring advanced, portable screening technology directly to schools, making early detection more accessible and efficient.

“Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, with 40% of cases occurring in the 40-50 age group,” she added, pointing out the importance of using advanced technology such as AI in early detection and treatment.

The AI-assisted screening tool boasts an accuracy rate of 98% and offers faster, more convenient testing compared to traditional methods, Dr Al Jasmi said.

The programme, which began a week ago, has already screened 150 teachers in eight schools, identifying 20 cases with abnormalities. “Out of these, 18 were found to be benign, and two cases required further investigation for possible malignancy,” she revealed.

Focusing on women aged 30 to 40, the initiative is based on recent research showing that 21% of breast cancer cases now occur in this younger demographic. “Typically, mammograms are done after age 40, but many women in this age group are not coming forward for screenings, so we decided to bring the services to them,” Dr Al Jasmi explained.

She said the portable screening device is a key innovation in this campaign. Unlike traditional mammography, which requires 20 to 30 minutes and a visit to a healthcare facility, the portable machine enables quick, on-site testing and it is less painful. “This is a preliminary test. If any abnormalities are detected, we refer patients for further tests such as ultrasounds, mammograms or biopsies.”

The campaign aims to raise awareness about early detection and encourage self-examination among teachers, whose busy schedules often prevent them from prioritising their health. “By going directly to schools, we not only screen for breast cancer but also support the national agenda to reduce cancer-related deaths,” Dr Al Jasmi said.

She added that EHS is committed to expanding the initiative and ensuring follow-up care for any detected cases.