Early Detection and Support Crucial for Breast Cancer Patients in Northern Israel

Dr. Salma Abu Ful, Director of the Breast Surgery Unit at Ziv Medical Center in Safed, highlighted the significant challenges faced by women in the Arab community and northern Israel regarding breast cancer detection and treatment. She emphasized that while medical advancements exist, many women encounter obstacles such as fear of diagnosis, embarrassment, and difficulty accessing medical services, leading to delayed diagnoses.

Abu Ful noted that the Arab community has diverse needs, and factors beyond genetics and personal health, such as the availability and accessibility of quality medical infrastructure, play a critical role. She pointed out a shortage of these essential services in Arab towns, contributing to late-stage diagnoses. Social and cultural factors, including the historical prevalence of male surgeons, have also influenced women's willingness to undergo clinical examinations, though the increasing number of female surgeons is improving access.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Israel. In the Arab community, approximately 35% of cases are diagnosed in women under 50, compared to 23% among Jewish women. Despite this, the five-year survival rate for Arab women has improved to 86.2%.

Abu Ful shared the case of a northern resident who delayed seeking diagnosis for six months due to fear, only to discover cancer that had spread to her armpit. Prompt diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan at Ziv Medical Center led to an excellent response, a simple surgery, and radiation therapy. She is now under follow-up care with no signs of disease, receiving comprehensive personal support from a multidisciplinary team that manages appointments and bureaucratic hurdles.

Ziv Medical Center offers an integrated breast health service, including surgical consultation, imaging, biopsies, and comprehensive evaluations. Patients receive dedicated support from specialized nurses and coordinators for logistical and bureaucratic matters, alongside professional and psychological assistance. The center also provides advanced imaging like MRI and PET-CT in collaboration with the oncology unit and has recently opened a lymphedema treatment center for post-surgery patients.

Abu Ful urged women not to ignore any changes in their breasts and not to let fear of diagnosis prevent them from seeking medical advice, stating that delaying treatment does not make the disease disappear. She stressed that early diagnosis, a personalized follow-up program, and appropriate treatment are fundamental to combating breast cancer, adding that even advanced cases have treatment options to manage the disease and improve quality of life.