Abu Dhabi-based Al Rahba Hospital has launched a new digital mammography unit specialising in the area of breast cancer detection.

The new unit features the latest in digital imaging technology with all necessary mechanical and software features available on site, permitting fast image acquisition and archiving, secondary post-processing, and advanced computer analysis detection, a statement said.

The unit is also designed to be patient-friendly and in line with the cultural customs of the region, reducing as much as possible the inconveniences typically associated with breast examinations.

The foremost innovation of the unit is the addition of a stenograph essential system, which uses special types of low energy x-ray technology to scan patients for breast cancer.

The x-rays do not go through other tissues as easily as those used for more routine x-ray procedures, improving the contrast of the image for cancer detection. The digital system also exposes the patient to much lower doses of radiation compared to devices used just a few years ago.

“Mammogram screenings greatly improve a woman’s chance for successful treatment,” said Dr Nellie Boma, MD, MPH, and chief medical officer of Al Rahba Hospital.

“Early detection tests for breast cancer save many thousands of lives each year, and many more lives could be saved if more women and their healthcare providers took advantage of these tests.”

According to Dr Boma, women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

Women in their 20s and 30s should also have a clinical breast exam as part of their regular health examinations, preferably every three years. – TradeArabia News Service