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Medcare Predicts Four-Fold Rise in Breast Cancer Screenings for October

Published

1 year ago

October 3, 2024

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Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, group has announced rolling out the third edition of its annual breast cancer screening and awareness program this October and is on track to screen over 700 women this year. The month-long campaign, running from October 1 to 31, is led by Medcare Women & Children Hospital and will run across all of Medcare’s hospitals & Medical Centres. Offering a special screening package that includes a consultation with a specialist and the choice of an ultrasound or mammogram screening, Medcare’s mostly women-led facility, Medcare Women & Children Hospital, is encouraging mothers and women to prioritize their health. Medcare’s approach has always been about educating the public towards the prevention of illnesses and lifestyle improvements while making screenings affordable to the wider public.

Commenting on the screening program, Internal Medicine Specialist and Medical Director of Medcare Women & Children Hospital and Medcare Medical Centers, Dr. Ahmed Abdel Hameed said “We are happy to announce the third edition of Breast Cancer Campaign, following the huge success of previous years’ programme that witnessed a threefold increase over the last 2 years. We are delighted to see that women are responding so well to our educational program and really taking ownership of their health. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in UAE, however, it is also one of the most curable types of cancers if identified and treated in its early stages. We are all about empowering and enriching the lives of our patients through supporting them to make informed decisions about their health.

“Early detection is critical in improving survival rates and treatment outcomes for breast cancer, and we are proud to empower women to take control of their health. The campaign aims to eliminate the hesitation women may feel towards breast cancer screening by offering convenient and affordable service, delivered by a team of highly qualified gynecologists, general surgeons, and breast health experts,” added Dr. Brian Mtemererwa, Consultant Endocrinologist and Medical Director at Medcare Royal Specialty Hospital

Out of the 504 women screened last year, 10% were found to have “suspicious” abnormalities that required further investigation as these abnormalities could either have be pre-cancerous or in actuality be malignant. Additionally, nearly 30% of women screened, showed minor benign abnormalities, including clustered round calcifications and fibroadenomas. For women found with abnormalities, our specialists recommended biopsies and follow-up consultations with surgeons, ensuring that patients received the necessary care if needed. Many participants were advised to return for repeat screenings within six months to monitor their progression.

Worldwide the age bracket of women being diagnosed with breast cancer has been dropping. For instance, one of the patients who came to Medcare Women & Children Hospital for her screening, Ms Jessica Abou Jaoude, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the prime of her life, being only 30 years old. Having no previous family history of breast cancer and living a healthy lifestyle, the news came as a complete shock to her.

“Breast cancer can be detected at any age, even with no family, or personal history. Whether you are in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, the risk is real. I was happily living life till one day I found a lump in my breast while self-evaluating. I was sure it was nothing to worry about but still decided to get myself screened anyway. I received the shocking diagnosis and the rest is history. Had I waited and delayed my screening, I probably would not have made it. Through early detection and taking the right steps to investigate my small lump, I have saved my own life. I am happy to share my positive experience with Medcare as a breast cancer advocate, and encourage all women out there to get over the fear and have themselves evaluated. I now live a healthy and happy life with a long future ahead.

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UAE electric vehicle drivers get relief as Tesla rolls out free charging stations across the country

Published

9 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Tesla has rolled out free Supercharging across key locations in the UAE and wider Gulf, offering immediate relief to electric vehicle (EV) users during a period of regional uncertainty.

The initiative, which took effect at midnight local time, covers more than 30 charging stations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

The decision came after an appeal from an Emirati Tesla owner and reflects the company’s broader approach during crises, providing free charging support to affected communities.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously stated that the company enables free Supercharging during challenging times to help drivers stay mobile without added cost.

UAE coverage

The UAE has the largest number of activated stations, spanning major cities, highways, and residential areas.

Abu Dhabi

Al Dhanna, Al Maryah, Al Mirfa, Masdar Central Park, Masdar City Centre, Yas Mall (Hypermarket LG & Main Entrance)

Dubai

Abu Hail, Al Habtoor City, Dubai Hills (Grand Atrium & Storm Coaster), Dubai Mall Za’abeel, Mall of the Emirates, Meadows Village, Wadi Al Safa, Wafi City

Northern Emirates

Ajman City Centre, Al Ain, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Fujairah, Hatta

Key Highways

Jebel Ali corridor (both Abu Dhabi-bound and Dubai-bound)

Sharjah

City Centre, Rahmania Mall, Suyoh Mall

Ras Al Khaimah

Al Naeem Mall

Other parts of the Gulf

Saudi Arabia

Dammam, Riyadh, Jeddah (including Al Ajawad Street and Al Amir Sultan), Taif

Qatar

Doha Festival City

Tesla’s move highlights how EV infrastructure can play a critical role during disruptions, ensuring mobility, reducing costs, and supporting communities when it matters most.

With the UAE already leading EV adoption in the region, the expanded free charging network is expected to benefit a growing number of drivers during the Eid travel period and beyond.

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UAE announces Eid prayer timings, bans open-air prayer grounds

Published

13 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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As the UAE prepares for Eid Al Fitr, authorities have confirmed that prayers will be held exclusively in approved mosques across the country, with no arrangements for open-air prayer grounds this year.

The move comes as part of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring the safety and smooth flow of worshippers during one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar.

Mosque-only prayers for safety

Authorities clarified that Eid prayers will not take place in outdoor spaces or traditional Eid prayer grounds. Instead, worshippers are advised to attend designated mosques, where entry and exit will be carefully managed.

Teams of officials and volunteers will be deployed to oversee crowd movement and prevent congestion, ensuring an orderly and safe prayer experience.

Prayer timings across the UAE

The official prayer timings for Eid Al Fitr in the seven emirates are as follows:

Abu Dhabi: 6:43am
Dubai: 6:40am
Sharjah: 6:39am
Ajman: 6:39am
Umm Al Quwain: 6:39am
Ras Al Khaimah: 6:37am
Fujairah: 6:36am

Residents are encouraged to arrive early and follow guidance from authorities.

Preparing for a smooth Eid

Authorities say preparations are underway to ensure the holiday is observed safely and smoothly, with a focus on public safety and community well-being.

With clear guidelines, set timings, and coordinated efforts in place, residents across the UAE can look forward to a peaceful and well-managed Eid celebration.

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Eid Al Fitr begins on Friday in UAE as crescent moon not sighted

Published

14 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Friday, March 20, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Wednesday evening.

The decision was made by the country’s Moon-sighting Committee, confirming that Ramadan will complete 30 days this year before the festive celebrations begin.

30 days of Ramadan

The sighting of the Shawwal crescent marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. As the moon was not sighted, the holy month will run its full course, with Eid commencing the following day.

Public sector holidays

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced that public sector employees will observe the Eid break from Thursday, March 19, through Sunday, March 22. Work will resume on Monday, March 23.

Private sector holidays

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that private sector employees will begin their Eid holidays on Thursday, March 19, lasting until Sunday, March 22.

Time for celebration

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and community, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

With the official dates confirmed, residents across the UAE can now prepare for the festivities and holiday period.