Dubai: The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has partnered with AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology firm, to improve early detection programs for lung cancer throughout the UAE by leveraging cutting-edge global technologies and practices.
As part of this collaboration, a digital platform for lung health assessments will be introduced, specifically aimed at high-risk populations, particularly those aged 50 and above who are current or former smokers.
Additionally, the Ministry is developing a national guide for the early detection of lung cancer in conjunction with the National Committee for the Prevention and Control of Cancer. This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader goal of enhancing non-communicable disease prevention and building a sustainable healthcare system in the UAE.
The agreement will also involve creating an integrated early detection system for lung cancer utilizing artificial intelligence, training medical professionals on global best practices, and launching innovative awareness programs focused on high-risk groups.
Furthermore, the collaboration includes revising initiatives aimed at decreasing the prevalence of lung cancer. A workshop is set to convene local and international experts to discuss the latest detection techniques, examine the impact of lung cancer on healthcare systems in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, and share stories from patients who benefited from early detection.
Coinciding with Lung Cancer Awareness Month, this initiative highlights MoHAP’s commitment to advancing national health standards and supports the World Health Organization’s target of a 30% reduction in cancer mortality by 2030.
In collaboration with AstraZeneca and the Emirates Oncology Society, MoHAP also organized six days of awareness events in Dubai to educate the community on lung cancer symptoms and promote regular screenings, encouraging at-risk individuals to seek early detection.
Additionally, workshops were held featuring local and international experts, showcasing the latest technological innovations and artificial intelligence techniques in diagnosing and treating lung cancer.
Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at MoHAP, said that, “Our strategic partnership with AstraZeneca aims to advance lung cancer early detection programs through artificial intelligence. This is part of our ongoing efforts to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to health challenges, driven by our wise leadership’s vision to build an integrated health system that ensures a healthy and fulfilling life for all members of society.”
Al Rand added that, “The Ministry will continue to organize a series of specialized workshops to train medical staff in government and private health facilities on the latest international protocols for early lung cancer detection. The UAE continues to maintain cancer rates below the global average.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies lung cancer as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths globally, affecting both men and women with high mortality rates.
Approximately 85% of lung cancer cases are attributed to smoking. Effective prevention, including comprehensive tobacco control and reducing exposure to environmental hazards, can play a vital role in lowering lung cancer incidence and saving lives.
The integration of artificial intelligence and specialized training for medical professionals further underscores the commitment to adopting innovative health solutions.
Through this collaboration, the UAE aims not only to reduce lung cancer incidence but also to position itself as a leader in global health initiatives, aligning with international efforts to combat cancer and improve public health outcomes.