ABU DHABI: The National Health Insurance Company - Daman, a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, is encouraging its members and the wider UAE community to maintain a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of breast cancer. Daman's advice coincides with the conclusion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in which the company organised a series of awareness initiatives aimed at raising public understanding of the disease. These initiatives featured webinars and awareness activities with experts offering advice on breast cancer prevention, supporting Daman's broader campaign to highlight the importance of preventative measures and a healthy lifestyle to lower cancer risks. According to Emirates News Agency, Daman's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mostafa Shaheen, highlighted the prevalence of breast cancer not only in middle-aged females but also in women over 20 years old and men. Dr. Shaheen noted that breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers globally, with lifestyle cha nges potentially preventing 25 to 30% of cases. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, as well as quitting smoking, to reduce breast cancer risk. Additionally, research indicates that breastfeeding can lower the risk of pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer. Technological advances are changing the ways that healthcare providers can accurately detect breast cancer at an early stage. Early detection methods, such as attending annual screening mammography, are advocated despite perceived risks from radiation exposure. Dr. Shaheen mentioned BRCA mutation testing as a method to identify cancerous genetic mutations early, ensuring prompt treatment. 3D Mammography, or Tomosynthesis, was also noted for providing more detailed images than 2D Mammography, reducing false positives in detection. Through access to the largest healthcare network in the UAE, Daman provides its members with coverage for cancer preventive screenings, including Magnetic Res onance Imaging (MRI), mammograms, and Breast Computer-Aided Detection (CAD), according to each member's 'Schedule of Benefits'.