Prime Highlights:
- Abu Dhabi launches the “Check What Really Matters” campaign to encourage women to take action and get regular breast cancer screenings.
- The campaign links simple daily habits, like looking in the mirror or checking a phone, to checking health, making screenings part of everyday life.
Key Facts:
- Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the UAE, with early detection improving survival rates to over 90%.
- In 2024, over 80% of breast cancer cases in Abu Dhabi were detected early, and screenings increased by 31%, reaching more than 34,000 women.
Key Background:
The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), together with other organisations in the emirate, has launched a new breast cancer awareness campaign called “Check What Really Matters.” The campaign urges women to go beyond awareness and take action by getting regular breast cancer screenings.
Although most people in Abu Dhabi understand the importance of screening, many women still delay or avoid it due to fear, uncertainty, or procrastination. The campaign reminds women to check their health by linking it to everyday habits, like looking in the mirror or checking their phone.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the UAE. Early detection is very important, with survival rates over 90% when the cancer is found early. In 2024, more than 80% of breast cancer cases in Abu Dhabi were caught early, and screenings increased by 31%, with over 34,000 women tested.
National health guidelines recommend that women aged 40 and above undergo a mammogram every two years. Those between 20 and 39 should have a clinical breast exam every three years, while women aged 35–39 may choose a clinical risk assessment.
Director General of ADPHC, Dr. Rashed Al Suwaidi, said that early detection of breast cancer can significantly enhance recovery, yet many women are affected. He added that this campaign aims to make screenings regular, easy to access, and reliable.
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri, Executive Director of Community Health at ADPHC, said the campaign helps overcome reasons that stop women from getting screened. She emphasized that screenings are fast, safe, and can save lives, and that every woman should know how and where to get them.
To reach more people, ADPHC has partnered with health care networks, cancer societies, sports organisations, beauty brands, and retail partners. Free screening days and mobile units will be available across the emirate. Thiqa cardholders can book appointments through IFHAS providers
at www.ifhas.gov.ae, while other residents can access complimentary screenings at partner facilities throughout October.
The campaign sends a clear message: Courage over hesitation. Action over delay. Screening for risk.
