Metastatic Cancer in the UAE: An Interview WIth Dr. Marwan Ghosn

Interview with Dr. Marwan Ghosn by Sara Awad

The UAE is making significant strides in the fight against metastatic cancer, particularly in early detection, advanced treatments, and compassionate patient care, thanks to rising awareness and investment in healthcare. Dr. Marwan Ghosn, a leading oncologist with expertise across the Middle East, recently shared his insights into how these advances are shaping the UAE’s cancer care landscape. His observations offer a hopeful perspective on the journey from early screening efforts to the latest treatments that extend and improve the lives of patients with advanced cancer.

Progress in Early Detection: Reducing Metastatic Cancer Diagnoses

Around the world, improvements in early cancer detection have reduced the number of cases progressing to metastasis. In the UAE, Dr. Ghosn explained, “I have witnessed a tremendous effort, an extraordinary effort, in awareness and early screening for multiple cancers—breast, prostate, and lung cancers, among others.” Campaigns across social media, TV, and billboards are creating a culture where individuals are encouraged to prioritize health and early checkups. This change is impactful; as Dr. Ghosn noted, “The fact that you are increasing the awareness for early diagnosis of cancers automatically makes the figures decrease.” Public health campaigns are leading more people to undergo routine screenings, which helps detect cancer earlier and thereby reduces the likelihood of metastatic progression.

Addressing Cultural Barriers: Moving Past Taboos

Despite these advancements, Dr. Ghosn acknowledged that cultural taboos around cancer still delay some patients from seeking timely care, particularly in the UAE’s diverse communities. “Unfortunately, till now, I am seeing patients who come with advanced cancers—metastatic situations,” he said. “Part of this is due to the taboo surrounding cancer,” he explained, describing cases where individuals delayed seeing a doctor out of fear or cultural beliefs. Cultural diversity in the UAE means varied attitudes toward cancer and healthcare. “Everybody, each community, has its own belief in medicine and what medicine is capable of,” he said. While awareness campaigns are helping break down barriers, Dr. Ghosn emphasized that more work is needed to dismantle the stigma around cancer and encourage open conversations, which could lead to earlier interventions.

The UAE’s Focus on Patient Education and Preventive Care

For women in particular, Dr. Ghosn highlighted how early screening and preventive measures can be life-saving. He strongly advised regular mammograms starting at age 40 and emphasized the importance of HPV vaccination and cervical exams. “Early detection saves lives,” he stressed. "What is 20 minutes compared to a lifetime?" He also acknowledged that while mammograms can be uncomfortable, the brief discomfort is worthwhile, saying, “What is this small pain compared to saving lives?” In a country focused on modernization, Dr. Ghosn underscored the role of the UAE’s family medicine practitioners in encouraging patients to be proactive about health checks. “If they feel anything abnormal in their body, go and seek the advice of a family medicine doctor,” he advised. This level of access to healthcare advice and support is essential to educating patients on the importance of early detection and preventive health practices.

A Balanced Lifestyle Approach for Cancer Prevention

Beyond early detection, Dr. Ghosn advocates for a balanced lifestyle to lower cancer risk. His recommendations for UAE residents and beyond include tobacco cessation, healthy weight management, and moderate exercise. “Obesity by itself is a bad factor for cancer,” he noted, adding that at least 30 minutes of exercise per week—including strength training—can help reduce cancer risks. In terms of diet, he urged moderation. “I’m not saying stop sugar, but don’t have an excess,” he explained, suggesting that avoiding extreme dietary restrictions can lead to a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Instead, he recommended a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins to maintain a healthy balance. Dr. Ghosn also stressed the link between mental well-being and cancer, as stress has been shown to both increase cancer risk and reduce treatment efficacy. “We don’t have the full data yet, but it will be concluded, I am sure, that stress increases the risk of cancer,” he remarked, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to health.

Innovations in Metastatic Cancer Treatment in the UAE

For those diagnosed with metastatic cancer, the UAE is becoming a hub for cutting-edge treatments that go beyond traditional options. Dr. Ghosn shared that the perception of metastatic cancer is evolving. “For a very long period of time, when you said ‘metastatic situation,’ it meant a very short survival rate,” he said, explaining how new treatments are transforming what was once seen as terminal into a manageable condition with improved quality of life. Today, UAE cancer centers offer a range of advanced therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). “There are even metastatic situations where we can cure our patients,” Dr. Ghosn noted. These treatments, which directly target cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue, are giving new hope to patients and their families, even in cases once considered beyond the reach of medicine. The UAE’s investment in medical technology has allowed doctors to provide state-of-the-art treatments that offer patients extended survival times and a better quality of life.

Raising Awareness in the Medical Community for Patient-Centered Care

Another challenge Dr. Ghosn highlighted is the need for greater awareness and unity among healthcare providers to give patients consistent and hopeful advice. “There is a discrepancy between the knowledge and the current situation,” he said. In cases where oncologists recommend treatments but other medical professionals express skepticism, patients and families can feel unsure about proceeding. Dr. Ghosn believes that a stronger consensus among healthcare providers can help patients make informed choices and feel supported. This emphasis on patient-centered care is a key part of the UAE’s healthcare progress, Dr. Ghosn observed. With more education and a united front from medical professionals, patients are more likely to feel empowered and hopeful as they navigate complex treatment decisions.

The UAE’s Commitment to Excellence in Cancer Care

Reflecting on the UAE’s commitment to healthcare excellence, Dr. Ghosn praised the country’s investments in both medical infrastructure and human resources. “I have seen a huge investment in medicine and infrastructure in the UAE,” he said, noting that these advancements create a promising outlook for patients. "The more you invest in human resources, the brighter the future looks," he remarked, emphasizing that the UAE’s robust healthcare landscape provides a foundation for continual improvements in patient care.

In summary, Dr. Ghosn’s insights highlight the UAE’s dedication to advancing cancer care, especially in the face of metastatic disease. By investing in cutting-edge technology, fostering a culture of awareness, and promoting preventive care, the UAE is creating a supportive and forward-thinking environment for cancer patients. Dr. Ghosn remains optimistic, envisioning a “very nice future” for cancer care in the UAE—a future defined by compassion, resilience, and medical innovation.

Find more about Dr. Marwan Ghost on his socials:

Private clinic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingoodhealthclinic

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marwan-ghosn

Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarwanghosn