Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Marked annually on February 4, World Cancer Day highlights the growing role of innovation, awareness and coordinated health policies in improving cancer outcomes and supporting patients and families worldwide.
Speaking to Aletihad on the occasion, Dr Dima Abdel Jabbar, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Director of the Burjeel Breast Centre at Burjeel Cancer Institute, underscored the scale of the global challenge while emphasising the importance of prevention and early diagnosis.
“Cancer remains a major global health challenge, with more than 20 million new cases diagnosed worldwide each year, according to international estimates,” she said.
“Yet, evidence shows that up to one-third of cancers can be prevented, and many others can be successfully treated when detected early. Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates and reduces the need for aggressive treatments.”
Addressing the regional context, Dr Abdel Jabbar noted encouraging progress in awareness and outcomes, particularly in breast cancer.
“Locally and regionally, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer, particularly among women. However, there has been a noticeable improvement in awareness, screening participation, and early presentation, which has had a positive impact on outcomes,” she said.
She added that advances in treatment have transformed patient care.
“Today, many breast cancers are diagnosed at earlier stages, when treatment is more effective, and recovery rates are higher. Advances in oncology, including targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and modern surgical techniques, have transformed cancer care. These innovations enable more precise, less invasive treatments, resulting in improved cosmetic and functional outcomes, as well as a better overall quality of life for patients both during and after treatment.”
The World Cancer Day theme for the years 2025 to 2027 is "United by Unique", which places people at the centre of care and recognises that every individual's experience is unique.
Reflecting on the broader message of World Cancer Day, Dr Abdel Jabbar stressed the importance of holistic, compassionate care.
“World Cancer Day is an important reminder that cancer care is not only about treating disease, but about empowering patients through awareness, access to specialised multidisciplinary care, and compassionate support,” she said.
“We continue to see how early detection combined with advanced, patient-centred care can offer comfort, recovery and renewed hope for patients and their families.”
Concluding, she highlighted the UAE’s continued focus on strengthening cancer care systems. “Based on this year’s theme and the UAE’s perspective, the focus continues to shift toward strengthening prevention, expanding access to early screening, and integrating innovation into cancer care,” she said.
“The UAE has made significant strides in promoting awareness, adopting advanced diagnostic technologies, and offering state-of-the-art treatments within a patient-centred healthcare system. These efforts reflect a national commitment to improving outcomes, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring that cancer care is delivered with both clinical excellence and compassion.”
