In Kuwait, the majority of breast cancer cases continue to be diagnosed at stage two, largely due to delays in detection, according to medical specialists. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options and survival rates, but many women seek medical attention only after symptoms become apparent.

During a panel discussion held on Sunday at the Canadian Ambassador’s official residence in Kuwait, healthcare professionals emphasized the critical importance of early screening and awareness to improve outcomes. The event was hosted by the SHINE Women’s Forum, which aims to educate women on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options for breast cancer.

Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women in Kuwait, accounting for about 25 percent of all cancer diagnoses and approximately half of all cancers affecting women in the country. Specialist Breast Medical Oncologist Dr. Mae Al-Ghawas noted that the average age of diagnosis in Kuwait is in the mid-50s, notably younger than the mid-60s average seen in many Western countries.

Although Kuwait possesses the medical infrastructure necessary to detect breast cancer early, doctors say that greater public awareness is essential to encourage women to undergo screening before symptoms appear. Consultant Radiologist Dr. Maryam Al-Shatti highlighted that the asymptomatic phase—when cancer can be present but undetectable by touch—may last up to two years. In 2025, Kuwait’s breast screening program conducted about 7,000 screenings, identifying more than 70 cancers in symptom-free women, alongside 48 high-risk lesions.

Detection at an early stage dramatically improves survival prospects. For example, non-invasive ductal carcinoma in situ carries a 100 percent survival rate. When breast cancer is detected through screening before symptoms arise, the survival rate reaches 98 percent, according to Al-Shatti.

Early diagnosis can also lead to less aggressive treatment. Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Dr. Dalal Al-Aradi explained that small, localized tumors may be treated with breast-conserving surgery, such as lumpectomy, which removes the tumor while preserving the remainder of the breast. When cancers are larger or more invasive, oncoplastic techniques can help maintain breast shape or, if necessary, a mastectomy followed by reconstruction may be required.

Physiotherapist Dr. Mouneera Amos discussed post-surgical care, emphasizing that physiotherapy can begin within days after surgery to restore shoulder and arm mobility, improve posture, and reduce pain. She also described lymphedema—a potential long-term complication from damage to the lymphatic system during treatment—and highlighted the importance of early intervention through exercises and compression to manage symptoms.

To support early detection efforts, experts urge women to be aware of risk factors, including age, gender, family history, and inherited genetic mutations, which account for about 10 percent of breast cancer cases. Kuwait offers genetic testing for breast cancer patients regardless of family history, aiding risk assessment and treatment planning.

Other contributing factors include a high body mass index, unhealthy diet, smoking, alcohol use, and certain hormonal medications. For women at average risk, annual mammograms starting at age 40, along with regular clinical breast examinations, are recommended. Women aged 25 to 40 are advised to perform monthly self-examinations during the first 10 days after menstruation begins.

Kuwaiti women can self-refer to the public breast cancer screening program operating in five centers nationwide or access screening via referrals from primary health care clinics. Experts stress the importance of not ignoring signs such as new lumps, skin changes, nipple inversion, or unusual discharge as these warrant prompt medical evaluation.