Sheikh Khalifa Medical City Observes Breast Cancer Month throughout October

‘Early Detection of Breast Cancer Through Screening Saves Lives’: Dr. Aisha M. Al Salami, Oncologist at SKMC

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), managed by Cleveland Clinic, observed Breast Cancer Month throughout October in the hospital.

SKMC Wellness Program partnered with the Oncology and Radiology departments to provide various initiatives for employees, patients and visitors to the hospital.

Information booths were made available at different locations to raise awareness around the illness, providing information and awareness pamphlets along with pink pins, ribbons, books and other goodies.

Education sessions were offered to employees to raise awareness on the importance of early detection and screening. The various topics offered include breast cancer awareness, understanding breast cancer, tips for prevention and mammography.

SKMC is also holding a Go Pink event on 30 October, where the entire hospital is encouraged to ‘go pink’ on this day in support of those who are continuing to fight against the disease.

The increased awareness around the disease has led to an increase in the number of employees receiving mammograms, a service that SKMC Wellness Program also offers free of charge to caregivers.

“All women are at risk, the magnitude of which varies depending on other factors such as family history and lifestyle, but detecting breast cancer early may save lives,” said Dr. Aisha M. Al Salami, Oncologist at SKMC.

“Complete breast cancer screening including mammography, breast self-examination, and clinical breast exams enable detection of breast cancer at an early stage and certainly increase chances of survival, and this all comes down to awareness,” Dr.  Al Salami added, who is certified in Internal Medicine with the Arab Board.

According to the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD), breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the Emirate, at 22% of all cases, but can be cured if detected early and treated adequately.

SKMC is part of the SEHA Health System and is owned and operated by Abu Dhabi Health Services Company PJSC (SEHA), which is responsible for the curative activities of all the public hospitals and clinics in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.