Breast Cancer Screening in Dubai | Mammograms & Clinical Exams

Comprehensive breast cancer screening in Dubai. Mammograms, clinical breast exams, breast ultrasound, and genetic testing (BRCA) by experienced gynecologists. Early detection saves lives.

Comprehensive Breast Health & Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with 1 in 8 women developing breast cancer during their lifetime. Early detection through regular screening dramatically improves survival rates—5-year survival is 99% for localized breast cancer detected early. At our Dubai clinic, DHA-licensed gynecologists provide comprehensive breast health services following American Cancer Society (ACS), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and Dubai Health Authority (DHA) screening guidelines. Our services include clinical breast examinations, mammogram coordination, breast ultrasound referrals, genetic counseling and BRCA testing for high-risk women, breast self-exam education, and personalized screening plans based on your age, family history, and individual risk factors.

What Does Breast Screening Involve?

Comprehensive breast screening involves thorough clinical breast examination by experienced gynecologist checking for lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge, lymph node enlargement, mammogram coordination at accredited imaging centers (digital mammography or 3D tomosynthesis for dense breasts), breast ultrasound if palpable lump detected or dense breast tissue on mammography, risk assessment using validated tools (Gail model, Tyrer-Cuzick model) calculating personalized breast cancer risk, family history evaluation identifying hereditary breast cancer risk (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, Lynch syndrome), genetic counseling and testing referral for high-risk individuals, breast self-examination instruction with demonstration and educational materials, and personalized screening schedule based on age, risk factors, and guidelines ensuring optimal detection while minimizing overscreening.

Who Needs Breast Cancer Screening?

All women aged 40+ for annual mammogram screening as recommended by ACS and ACOG guidelines
Women aged 20-39 with clinical breast exam every 1-3 years as part of routine gynecologic care
Those with family history of breast cancer (mother, sister, daughter) requiring earlier or more frequent screening
Women with BRCA1, BRCA2, or other genetic mutations predisposing to breast cancer needing enhanced surveillance
Anyone with personal history of breast cancer, atypical hyperplasia, or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
Women who notice breast changes: new lump, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, nipple inversion, or breast pain
Those with dense breast tissue requiring supplemental screening beyond mammography (ultrasound, MRI)
Women considering genetic testing due to Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry or strong family cancer history

Benefits of Regular Breast Screening

Early cancer detection: Mammography detects breast cancer 1-3 years before it becomes palpable, enabling earlier treatment
Improved survival rates: 99% 5-year survival for localized breast cancer vs 27% for metastatic disease
Less aggressive treatment needed: Early-stage cancers often treated with lumpectomy vs mastectomy, less chemotherapy
Peace of mind from normal screening results and proactive health management
Detection of precancerous changes: Atypical hyperplasia, DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) treatable before invasive cancer
Risk assessment enabling informed decisions about prevention strategies (chemoprevention, prophylactic surgery)
Genetic testing identifies hereditary cancer risk allowing family screening and preventive measures
Expert guidance on breast health, self-exams, and risk reduction strategies tailored to your situation

Preparing for Your Breast Exam

Important Preparation Guidelines:

Schedule mammogram 1-2 weeks after menstrual period when breasts less tender (for premenopausal women)
Avoid caffeine, chocolate, salt 5-7 days before exam to minimize breast tenderness
Do not use deodorant, powder, or lotion on breast/underarm area day of mammogram (interferes with imaging)
Wear two-piece outfit for easy undressing during clinical exam and mammogram
Bring previous mammogram images or reports if done at different facility for comparison
List any breast symptoms: lumps, pain, nipple discharge, skin changes to discuss with doctor
Document family cancer history: which relatives had breast/ovarian cancer, age at diagnosis, outcomes

What to Expect During Your Visit

1Before the Exam

•Discussion of breast health history: previous lumps, biopsies, breast surgeries, family cancer history
•Review of breast cancer risk factors: age, family history, genetic mutations, reproductive history, hormone use
•Symptom assessment: have you noticed any breast changes, lumps, pain, nipple discharge?
•Screening history review: when was last mammogram, any previous abnormal results requiring follow-up

2During the Exam

•Clinical breast examination in private examination room: visual inspection for asymmetry, skin changes, nipple abnormalities
•Systematic palpation of entire breast and armpit checking for lumps, thickening, lymph node enlargement
•Nipple examination: gentle compression checking for discharge (if reported), assessment of nipple retraction
•Breast self-exam instruction: demonstration of proper technique, timing (1 week after period), what to look for
•Mammogram referral if due: coordination with accredited imaging center, prescription provided
•Additional imaging ordered if indicated: breast ultrasound for palpable lump, MRI for high-risk women

3After the Exam

•Discussion of clinical exam findings: normal vs any areas of concern requiring imaging
•Personalized screening recommendations: mammogram frequency based on age and risk factors
•Breast self-exam written instructions and video resources for home practice
•Risk assessment discussion: are you average risk, intermediate risk, or high risk for breast cancer?
•Genetic counseling referral if family history suggests hereditary breast cancer (3+ relatives, young age at diagnosis, bilateral cancer)
•Lifestyle counseling: maintain healthy weight, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, avoid smoking
•Follow-up plan: annual clinical exam, coordinate mammogram results, when to return for recheck
•What to do if you find a lump: urgent evaluation, diagnostic mammogram ± ultrasound within 1-2 weeks

Why Choose Our Breast Health Services in Dubai?

Expert Clinical Breast Examination

Our DHA-licensed gynecologists have extensive training in breast examination techniques, detecting subtle changes and lumps that untrained providers might miss. We perform thorough, systematic exams following standardized protocols ensuring all breast tissue and lymph nodes examined. Early detection of palpable abnormalities enables prompt diagnostic workup.

Coordinated Mammography Services

We coordinate mammogram appointments at Dubai's top accredited imaging centers offering digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis (mammography for dense breasts), and radiologists specializing in breast imaging. We review your results, explain findings in understandable terms, and coordinate any needed follow-up (additional views, ultrasound, biopsy).

High-Risk Screening Expertise

Specialized care for high-risk women: family history of breast/ovarian cancer, BRCA mutations, previous chest radiation, personal history of breast cancer or atypical lesions. Enhanced screening protocols including annual breast MRI (gold standard for high-risk), alternating mammogram and MRI every 6 months, genetic counseling and testing coordination, chemoprevention discussion (tamoxifen, raloxifene).

Genetic Testing & Counseling

Comprehensive BRCA1/BRCA2 testing available for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Referrals to certified genetic counselors who explain test implications, interpret results, discuss cancer risk percentages, and outline management options (enhanced surveillance, risk-reducing surgery, chemoprevention). Family cascade testing recommended for relatives if mutation identified.

Breast Lump Evaluation

Urgent evaluation for new breast lumps or concerning changes. Same-day or next-day appointments. Triple assessment: clinical exam + imaging (mammogram/ultrasound) + biopsy if indicated. Fast-track referrals to breast surgeons if cancer suspected. Coordination with oncologists for treatment planning if diagnosis confirmed. We support you through the entire process with compassion and expertise.

Comprehensive Breast Health Education

Empowering you with knowledge: proper breast self-examination technique, understanding breast density and its implications, recognizing warning signs requiring medical evaluation, lifestyle modifications reducing breast cancer risk (weight management, alcohol moderation, exercise), and making informed screening decisions balancing benefits and harms of mammography.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.When should I start getting mammograms and how often?

CURRENT GUIDELINES (2023): American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms starting age 45, transitioning to every 2 years at age 55 (or continue annually if preferred). ACOG recommends offering mammograms starting age 40, with shared decision-making about frequency. HIGH-RISK WOMEN: Start mammograms earlier (often age 30 or 10 years before youngest relative's diagnosis age) and screen annually. MRI screening added for BRCA carriers or >20% lifetime risk. UAE/DUBAI: DHA recommends annual mammograms from age 40. AGE-SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS: Ages 20-39: Clinical breast exam every 1-3 years, breast self-awareness (know what's normal for you). Ages 40-44: Mammogram option annually (benefits vs harms discussion with doctor). Ages 45-54: Annual mammogram recommended. Ages 55+: Mammogram every 1-2 years depending on preference and health status. CONTINUE SCREENING: As long as good health and life expectancy >10 years. No upper age limit if healthy. FAMILY HISTORY: First-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer—start mammograms 10 years earlier than their diagnosis age or age 40, whichever comes first. Multiple relatives or young diagnosis age—genetic counseling and possible MRI screening. BOTTOM LINE: Start discussion at age 40. High-risk women may need earlier and more intensive screening. Individualize based on personal risk factors.

Q2.What is the difference between mammogram, ultrasound, and MRI for breast screening?

Each imaging modality has specific uses and limitations. MAMMOGRAM: X-ray of compressed breast detecting microcalcifications (early cancer sign) and masses. BEST FOR: Routine screening, detecting non-palpable cancers. Gold standard for average-risk women. LIMITATIONS: Less sensitive in dense breasts (40-50% of women age 40-50), radiation exposure (very low dose), false positives cause anxiety/unnecessary biopsies. 2D vs 3D (tomosynthesis): 3D mammography takes multiple images at different angles, better for dense breasts, fewer false positives, slightly higher cancer detection. BREAST ULTRASOUND: Sound waves create images. NO radiation. BEST FOR: Evaluating palpable lumps, supplemental screening for dense breasts, distinguishing solid masses from fluid-filled cysts, guiding biopsies. LIMITATIONS: Cannot detect microcalcifications, operator-dependent quality, not standalone screening tool. BREAST MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging, most sensitive test. BEST FOR: High-risk screening (BRCA mutations, >20% lifetime risk), evaluating extent of known cancer, implant integrity assessment, problem-solving for inconclusive mammogram/ultrasound. LIMITATIONS: Expensive (AED 2,000-4,000), many false positives leading to unnecessary biopsies, requires contrast injection, not for average-risk screening. SCREENING APPROACH: Average risk: Annual mammogram (2D or preferably 3D). Dense breasts: Mammogram + ultrasound. High risk (BRCA, strong family history): Alternating mammogram and MRI every 6 months. Palpable lump: Mammogram + ultrasound (triple assessment). Your doctor determines appropriate imaging based on age, risk, and clinical findings.

Q3.What does it mean if I have dense breasts?

Breast density refers to the proportion of fibroglandular tissue vs fat in breasts on mammogram. DENSITY CATEGORIES: A: Almost entirely fatty (10% of women). B: Scattered fibroglandular density (40%). C: Heterogeneously dense (40%). D: Extremely dense (10%). Categories C and D are considered "dense breasts." WHY IT MATTERS: Dense breast tissue appears white on mammogram, as do cancers—making tumors harder to detect (like finding snowball in snowstorm). Dense breasts are also an independent risk factor—women with extremely dense breasts have 2-4 times higher breast cancer risk than those with fatty breasts. PREVALENCE: 40-50% of women undergoing screening have dense breasts. Younger women, premenopausal, lower BMI more likely dense. Breast density decreases with age and after menopause. NOTIFICATION LAWS: Many countries (including UAE) require radiologists to inform women if they have dense breasts on mammogram report. WHAT TO DO IF DENSE: Continue annual mammograms (still detect many cancers, especially calcifications). ADD supplemental screening: Whole breast ultrasound (most common, accessible, no radiation) or Abbreviated breast MRI (more sensitive but expensive). Discuss with doctor whether supplemental screening appropriate for YOUR risk level. Consider 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) which performs better than 2D in dense breasts. Maintain breast self-awareness—know how your breasts normally feel. DOES BREAST DENSITY CHANGE? Yes—decreases after menopause, with weight gain, or hormone therapy discontinuation. Repeat mammograms may show changing density. IMPORTANT: Dense breasts alone are NOT disease—it's breast composition. Many dense-breasted women never develop cancer. It's one risk factor among many.

Q4.Should I get BRCA genetic testing and who should be tested?

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that, when mutated, dramatically increase breast and ovarian cancer risk. CANCER RISKS WITH BRCA MUTATIONS: Breast cancer: 55-72% lifetime risk (vs 12% general population). Ovarian cancer: 39-44% (BRCA1) or 11-17% (BRCA2) lifetime risk (vs 1% general). Male breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer also increased. WHO SHOULD CONSIDER TESTING: Family history of breast cancer <50 years old, ovarian cancer any age, male breast cancer. Multiple breast cancers (bilateral, two different primaries). Both breast AND ovarian cancer in same person or family. Triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed <60 years. 3+ family members with breast/ovarian/prostate/pancreatic cancer. Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry (1 in 40 carry BRCA mutation vs 1 in 400 general population). Personal history of breast cancer diagnosed young wanting to assess ovarian cancer risk. Known BRCA mutation in family. TESTING PROCESS: Genetic counseling pre-test explaining implications, blood or saliva sample, results in 2-4 weeks, post-test counseling interpreting results and discussing management. COST: AED 3,000-6,000 in Dubai. Some insurance covers if criteria met. WHAT IF POSITIVE: Enhanced screening: Annual MRI + mammogram starting age 25-30, ovarian cancer screening (CA-125 + ultrasound though limited efficacy). Risk-reducing options: Prophylactic mastectomy reduces breast cancer risk 90%, prophylactic oophorectomy (ovary removal) at age 35-40 reduces ovarian cancer risk 80-90%. Chemoprevention: Tamoxifen or raloxifene. Family testing: First-degree relatives should be tested. WHAT IF NEGATIVE: If family member known to have mutation and you test negative—reassuring, return to average risk screening. If you're first in family tested and negative—doesn't rule out hereditary risk, other genes may be involved. BOTTOM LINE: Genetic testing appropriate if family history suggests hereditary cancer. Not needed for most women. Genetic counseling essential to make informed decision.

Q5.What should I do if I find a breast lump?

DO NOT PANIC—most breast lumps are benign (not cancer). However, any new persistent lump needs medical evaluation. IMMEDIATE STEPS: Contact your gynecologist or primary care doctor for appointment within 1-2 weeks (or sooner if rapidly growing, painful, or concerning features). Continue monthly breast self-exams but avoid excessive poking at the lump. Note characteristics: size, location, texture (hard, soft, mobile, fixed), any associated symptoms (pain, skin changes, nipple discharge). MEDICAL EVALUATION (TRIPLE ASSESSMENT): Clinical breast exam by doctor palpating lump, measuring size, assessing mobility and characteristics. Imaging: Mammogram (age >30) to evaluate lump and screen opposite breast for additional findings. Breast ultrasound to distinguish solid mass vs fluid-filled cyst, assess blood flow, guide biopsy if needed. Biopsy if imaging suspicious: Core needle biopsy (outpatient, local anesthesia, takes tissue sample for pathology), definitive diagnosis within 3-5 days. BENIGN LUMPS (COMMON): Fibroadenoma: Firm, rubbery, mobile lump in young women (20s-40s). Benign but may need removal if growing. Cyst: Fluid-filled sac, fluctuates with menstrual cycle. Aspirated if symptomatic. Fibrocystic changes: Lumpy, rope-like breast tissue, cyclical pain/tenderness. Benign but makes self-exam difficult. Fat necrosis: Firm lump after trauma/surgery. Benign but may mimic cancer. CANCER CHARACTERISTICS (CONCERNING FEATURES): Hard, irregular, fixed (doesn't move), painless (usually), skin dimpling, nipple retraction, bloody nipple discharge, axillary (armpit) lymph node enlargement. BUT cancer can present as soft, mobile, painful lump—biopsy is only definitive test. TIMELINE: Most breast cancer grows slowly—1-week delay for evaluation does NOT change prognosis. However, don't delay months. Seek evaluation within 2-4 weeks. OUTCOME: 80% of biopsied breast lumps are benign. Early detection and treatment of the 20% that are cancer leads to excellent survival. DON'T IGNORE: Even if lump feels "benign" or you're scared—early evaluation and diagnosis are crucial.

Q6.What are the risks and limitations of mammograms?

While mammography is the best breast cancer screening tool available, it has limitations and potential harms to consider. BENEFITS: Early cancer detection, reduced breast cancer mortality by 20-30% in screened populations, ability to detect non-palpable cancers and calcifications. LIMITATIONS: Sensitivity 80-90%—misses 10-20% of cancers present at time of screening (false negatives), especially in dense breasts. Specificity 90-95%—5-10% false positives requiring additional imaging or biopsy (anxiety, expense). Cannot differentiate benign from malignant masses—biopsy needed. POTENTIAL HARMS: Radiation exposure: Very low dose (0.4 mSv per exam = equivalent to 2 months background radiation). Lifetime cancer risk from radiation is minimal—1 additional breast cancer per 100,000 women screened annually for 10 years. Benefits far outweigh radiation risk. Overdiagnosis: Detection of cancers that would never cause symptoms or death in woman's lifetime (DCIS, slow-growing tumors). Leads to overtreatment—surgery, radiation for cancers that weren't life-threatening. Estimated 10-30% of screen-detected cancers may be overdiagnosed. False positives: 50-60% of women screened annually for 10 years will have at least one false positive requiring additional imaging. ~10% will have false-positive biopsy recommendation. Causes anxiety, additional radiation, biopsy complications. Discomfort: Breast compression during mammogram is uncomfortable, sometimes painful. Brief (seconds) but unpleasant. BALANCING BENEFITS AND HARMS: Ages 40-49: Modest benefit, higher false positives—discuss with doctor. Ages 50-74: Clear benefit, reduced mortality. Recommend screening. Ages 75+: Benefits decrease as life expectancy shortens, harms persist. Individualize based on health status. Annual vs biennial: Annual screening detects more cancers earlier but increases false positives and overdiagnosis. Biennial (every 2 years) reduces harms while maintaining most benefits. INFORMED CHOICE: Understand both benefits (early detection, life saved) and harms (false positives, overdiagnosis, anxiety) to make decision aligned with your values and risk tolerance. Most experts agree screening benefits outweigh harms for women 50-74.

Q7.How can I reduce my risk of breast cancer?

While some breast cancer risk factors are unmodifiable (age, genetics, family history), many lifestyle factors can reduce risk. MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS: MAINTAIN HEALTHY WEIGHT: Obesity (especially after menopause) increases breast cancer risk 20-40%. Excess fat produces estrogen promoting cancer. Even 5-10% weight loss reduces risk. EXERCISE REGULARLY: 150 minutes moderate or 75 minutes vigorous weekly exercise reduces risk 10-20%. More is better—marathon runners have 30% lower risk. LIMIT ALCOHOL: Even 1 drink daily increases risk 5-10%. 2-3 drinks/day increases risk 20-50%. Alcohol raises estrogen levels and is carcinogenic. Minimize or avoid. AVOID SMOKING: Smoking increases breast cancer risk, especially in premenopausal women or those who started young. Quit smoking—reduces risk over time. BREASTFEED IF POSSIBLE: Breastfeeding 12+ months reduces risk 4-5% per year of nursing. Protective effect is cumulative. LIMIT HORMONE THERAPY: Combined estrogen-progestin HRT for menopause increases risk with prolonged use (5+ years). Estrogen-only HRT does not increase risk. Use lowest dose for shortest duration. Avoid if strong family history. AVOID UNNECESSARY RADIATION: Chest radiation before age 30 (e.g., Hodgkin lymphoma treatment) greatly increases risk. Avoid unless medically necessary. NON-MODIFIABLE FACTORS: Age (risk increases with age), Family history (first-degree relative doubles risk), Genetic mutations (BRCA, PALB2, etc.), Early menstruation (<12 years) or late menopause (>55 years), Dense breast tissue, Previous breast biopsies showing atypical hyperplasia. CHEMOPREVENTION FOR HIGH-RISK: Tamoxifen or raloxifene reduces breast cancer risk 30-50% in high-risk women (>1.67% 5-year Gail risk). Discuss with doctor if BRCA carrier, strong family history, or previous LCIS/atypical hyperplasia. Side effects (hot flashes, blood clots) limit use. BOTTOM LINE: Healthy lifestyle (normal weight, exercise, limit alcohol) can reduce breast cancer risk 30-40%. Screening detects cancer early when treatment most effective. Combine prevention with screening for maximal protection.

Q8.What happens if my mammogram is abnormal?

Abnormal mammogram is common—5-10% of screening mammograms require additional evaluation. MOST ARE FALSE POSITIVES (90%+). BI-RADS CATEGORIES (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System): BI-RADS 0: Incomplete—additional imaging needed (different views, ultrasound, previous films for comparison). BI-RADS 1: Negative—no findings. BI-RADS 2: Benign findings (cysts, calcifications clearly benign). BI-RADS 3: Probably benign—<2% cancer risk. Short-term follow-up mammogram in 6 months to confirm stability. BI-RADS 4: Suspicious—biopsy recommended. Cancer risk 20-30%. BI-RADS 5: Highly suggestive of cancer—biopsy needed. Cancer risk >95%. BI-RADS 6: Known cancer—for staging/treatment planning. NEXT STEPS BASED ON RESULT: BI-RADS 0: Schedule diagnostic mammogram (additional views, magnification, compression spot views) ± ultrasound within 1-2 weeks. BI-RADS 3: Repeat mammogram in 6 months. If stable, return to annual screening. If changes, biopsy recommended. BI-RADS 4 or 5: Core needle biopsy (image-guided, local anesthesia, outpatient procedure taking tissue samples, results in 3-5 days). If cancer confirmed, referral to breast surgeon and oncologist for treatment planning. BIOPSY PROCEDURE: Ultrasound or mammogram-guided (stereotactic biopsy for calcifications). Local anesthesia numbs breast. Hollow needle inserts through small skin nick, multiple samples taken. 15-30 minute procedure. Mild bruising/soreness afterward. Biopsy scar does NOT interfere with future mammograms. BIOPSY RESULTS: Benign (80% of cases): Fibroadenoma, fibrocystic changes, papilloma, fat necrosis. Follow-up mammogram in 6-12 months, then return to routine screening. Atypical hyperplasia (5-10%): Precancerous, 4x increased cancer risk. Often recommend surgical excision. Increased surveillance. Chemoprevention discussion. Cancer (10-15%): DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ—non-invasive) or invasive cancer. Discuss treatment with breast surgeon—lumpectomy vs mastectomy, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy based on cancer type and stage. REMEMBER: Abnormal mammogram does NOT mean cancer. It means additional evaluation needed. Stay calm, complete recommended workup promptly. Early detection saves lives—90%+ of early-stage breast cancer is curable.

Q9.Do breast implants interfere with mammograms or increase cancer risk?

Breast implants (saline or silicone) require special mammography techniques but do NOT increase breast cancer risk. MAMMOGRAPHY WITH IMPLANTS: Standard 4 views PLUS 4 implant displacement (Eklund) views—technologist pushes implant back toward chest wall, pulling breast tissue forward for better visualization. 8 total images vs 4 for natural breasts. Slightly longer exam. DOES IT AFFECT CANCER DETECTION? Implants can obscure some breast tissue on mammogram, potentially reducing sensitivity. However, Eklund views improve visualization. Studies show implant displacement techniques detect cancer adequately. Some cancers may be detected later or present as palpable lumps. Importance of clinical breast exams and breast self-awareness increased. MRI more sensitive than mammography in implant patients—consider for high-risk women. IMPLANT RUPTURE: Mammogram can detect implant rupture (especially saline—sudden deflation). Silicone rupture better detected by MRI (not mammogram purpose but may be noted). BREAST IMPLANT-ASSOCIATED ANAPLASTIC LARGE CELL LYMPHOMA (BIA-ALCL): Rare cancer (1 in 2,000-30,000 textured implant patients) of immune cells in scar tissue around implant. NOT breast cancer. Symptoms: Late swelling (years after implant), fluid collection, lump. Detected by ultrasound, diagnosed by fluid sampling. Treatment: Implant removal ± chemotherapy. Excellent prognosis if caught early. More common with textured implants (smooth implants very low risk). BREAST CANCER RISK: Large studies confirm breast implants DO NOT increase breast cancer risk. Some studies suggest slightly REDUCED risk (possibly due to more frequent screening/monitoring). SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS: Same as general population based on age and risk factors. Annual mammogram starting age 40 (or earlier if high risk). Inform mammography facility about implants when scheduling—requires trained technologists and additional time. Breast MRI if high-risk (BRCA, strong family history). BOTTOM LINE: Women with implants should undergo regular breast cancer screening. Implants make mammography slightly more challenging but not impossible. Early detection still achievable with proper technique.

Q10.How much does breast cancer screening cost in Dubai and is it covered by insurance?

Breast cancer screening costs vary by provider and insurance status (approximate Dubai costs): CLINICAL BREAST EXAMINATION: Part of annual gynecologic exam: AED 300-600. Standalone breast exam: AED 200-400. MAMMOGRAPHY: 2D digital mammogram (screening): AED 400-700. 3D mammography (tomosynthesis): AED 600-1,000. Diagnostic mammogram (additional views): AED 500-800. BREAST ULTRASOUND: Whole breast screening ultrasound: AED 500-800. Targeted ultrasound (evaluate lump): AED 400-600. BREAST MRI: Screening or diagnostic breast MRI: AED 2,000-4,000. Most expensive, reserved for high-risk. BIOPSY: Ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy: AED 1,500-3,000. Stereotactic (mammogram-guided) biopsy: AED 2,000-4,000. Surgical excisional biopsy: AED 5,000-10,000. GENETIC TESTING: BRCA1/BRCA2 testing: AED 3,000-6,000. Multi-gene panel (broader): AED 5,000-10,000. INSURANCE COVERAGE: Most UAE health insurance plans cover screening mammography starting age 40 (annual or biennial depending on policy). DHA-regulated essential benefits package includes cancer screening. Government insurance (Thiqa, Saada, Daman) typically covers age-appropriate screening. Diagnostic imaging (for abnormal screening or lump evaluation) usually covered. Biopsies covered when medically indicated. Genetic testing coverage varies—often covered if strong family history meets criteria, may require pre-authorization. Breast MRI for high-risk screening sometimes covered, sometimes denied as "not medically necessary." SELF-PAY OPTIONS: Many imaging centers offer affordable screening packages. Government facilities (DHA, Rashid Hospital) offer subsidized mammography (AED 100-200). PINK CARAVAN (UAE): Free mobile mammography program for Emirati women and low-income residents—check schedule online. RECOMMENDATION: Check your insurance benefits before scheduling. Obtain pre-authorization if required. Keep receipts for potential reimbursement if paying out-of-pocket. Our clinic: Insurance verification assistance, coordination with in-network imaging centers, transparent pricing for uninsured patients.