UAE’s MoHAP partners with AstraZeneca to drive early lung cancer detection

UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has taken a bold step forward in the fight against lung cancer by partnering with AstraZeneca, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. This collaboration aims to revolutionize early lung cancer detection using cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive strategies.

With lung cancer being a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, early detection is critical to improving survival rates.

How will it work?

As part of this strategic agreement, MoHAP and AstraZeneca are launching a digital lung health assessment platform, designed specifically for high-risk groups. This includes individuals aged 50 and older who have a history of smoking. The platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline early detection, analyze data, and identify potential cases earlier than traditional methods.

In addition, a national guide for early detection is being developed in collaboration with the National Committee for the Prevention and Control of Cancer. This guide will serve as a roadmap for healthcare providers, ensuring consistent and effective practices across the country. Medical staff will also receive specialized training on the latest international protocols and technologies.

Workshops featuring local and international experts will further strengthen this initiative. These sessions will provide insights into the burden of lung cancer in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, highlight cutting-edge detection methods, and share success stories of early-detected cases.

Why does it matter?

Lung cancer remains a major public health challenge, accounting for the highest cancer mortality rates globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking is responsible for 85% of all lung cancer cases, making early detection and prevention crucial. MoHAP's partnership with AstraZeneca underscores a commitment to reduce cancer mortality rates in the UAE and aligns with the WHO's goal of cutting cancer-related deaths by 30% by 2030.

Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: "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."

By adopting these advanced measures, the UAE aims to improve national health indicators and become a regional leader in innovative health solutions.

The context

This agreement comes at a pivotal moment, coinciding with Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and demonstrates the UAE's proactive approach to healthcare. The Ministry, in partnership with AstraZeneca and the Emirates Oncology Society, organized a six-day series of events in Dubai to raise awareness about early lung cancer detection. These events featured risk assessment questionnaires and encouraged attendees to seek early screenings at health facilities.

The workshops also showcased the latest advancements in AI and technology for diagnosing and treating lung cancer, reinforcing the UAE's position as a leader in healthcare innovation. By combining global expertise with local initiatives, the UAE is building a robust, sustainable health infrastructure aimed at significantly reducing the burden of lung cancer.