MoHAP And MSD Collaborate To Enhance Early Detection Of Lung Cancer Through Workshop

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) partnered with the pharmaceutical company MSD to host a scientific workshop during Lung Cancer Awareness Month. This event aimed to improve healthcare professionals' skills in early lung cancer detection and diagnosis, enhancing patient quality of life during and after treatment. The workshop is part of MoHAP's ongoing efforts to develop early detection programs, aligning with the World Health Organization's goal to reduce cancer mortality by 30% by 2030.

The workshop highlighted the significance of early lung cancer detection and prevention. Research indicates that early diagnosis can increase survival rates by 60% over five years. Discussions included innovative awareness programs for high-risk groups and updates on initiatives to lower lung cancer incidence. These efforts support national disease prevention strategies and strengthen the UAE’s position as a leader in proactive medical care.

Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, emphasized strategic partnerships with top institutions. These collaborations support early detection programs for lung cancer and its risk factors while keeping pace with scientific advancements. "Through these collaborations, we equip healthcare professionals with accurate and comprehensive information to strengthen prevention efforts and combat lung cancer more effectively," he stated.

Ashraf Mallak, Managing Director of MSD in the Gulf region, stressed collaboration's role in supporting MoHAP's efforts to enhance early lung cancer detection. He noted the importance of staying informed about prevalent cancers in the UAE to adopt effective strategies for early detection, risk assessment, and diagnosis. This approach aims to improve recovery rates and align with national agenda indicators to reduce mortality.

Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department at MoHAP, pointed out that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer-related deaths globally. To address this issue, MoHAP promotes preventive measures such as smoking cessation, smoke-free environments, robust tobacco control policies, addressing occupational hazards, and reducing air pollution levels.

The UAE is recognised globally for providing advanced health services to cancer patients. According to World Health Organisation data, cancer prevalence in the UAE remains lower than international averages. Lung cancer ranks as the sixth most common cancer in the country, with 231 cases diagnosed among individuals aged 50 and above in 2021.

MoHAP continues developing innovative solutions for health challenges aligned with the UAE’s vision of world-class healthcare services. Dr. Al Rand added that collaboration with local health authorities on national health campaigns supports leadership’s vision of an integrated health system improving quality of life for all citizens.

With inputs from WAM