The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), United Arab Emirates (UAE) has signed a strategic agreement with AstraZeneca, the multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, to enhance lung cancer early detection programmes across the country utilising the latest global technologies and practices.

As part of the agreement, a digital lung health assessment platform will be launched, targeting high-risk groups, particularly individuals aged 50 and older who are current or former smokers.

The Ministry has also announced that a national guide for the early detection of lung cancer is being developed in collaboration with the National Committee for the Prevention and Control of Cancer. This move is in line with the Ministry's end goal of promoting non-communicable disease prevention and creating a sustainable health infrastructure in the country.

Under the agreement, an integrated system for early lung cancer detection using artificial intelligence will be developed, alongside training medical staff on international best practices and implementing innovative awareness programs targeting high-risk groups. The agreement also includes updating initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of the disease. Additionally, a workshop will be held for local and international experts to explore the latest detection methods, provide insights on the burden of lung cancer on health systems in the GCC, and share experiences of patients who recovered due to early detection.