Breast cancer screening and prevention in the UAE: a cross-sectional study of risk awareness and provider engagement.

BACKGROUND

Effective breast cancer (BC) control relies on the uptake of preventive measures, engagement with screening practices, and informed risk communication. This study examined breast cancer (BC) preventive measures and screening practices undertaken by women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as the BC risk assessment and screening recommendations provided by their healthcare providers.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 35 years and older in the UAE. Data collection utilised a validated and self-administered online questionnaire. BC risk was assessed using the Gail Model, which calculated lifetime and 5-year risk estimates. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate associations and identify key factors influencing risk and preventive measures.

RESULTS

A total of 1,049 women participated; 59% were aged 40–69 years, and 41% were under 40 years. High 5-year and lifetime breast cancer (BC) risks were identified in 8.2% and 4.6% of participants, respectively. Women aged 40–69 were significantly more likely to pursue preventive measures and screening practices, undergo BC risk assessments, and receive screening recommendations from healthcare providers. However, most participants reported rarely or never undergoing mammography (68%), clinical breast exams (68%), or breast self-exams (56%). Moreover, 54% were not informed of their BC risk, 61% did not undergo a risk assessment, and 40% did not receive screening recommendations from healthcare providers. Women at high BC risk were more likely to undergo risk assessment, receive provider recommendations, and engage in screening activities.

CONCLUSION

While women at high BC risk were more engaged in risk assessment and screening, the overall uptake of preventive and screening practices across the study participants was suboptimal. These findings highlight the need for improved public health strategies and greater provider engagement in BC risk communication and prevention efforts.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-23807-9.