Dubai: The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), in collaboration with health authorities and AstraZeneca, launched the National Guideline for Lung Cancer Screening and Diagnosis, aiming to enhance early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer. This initiative seeks to provide healthcare services that meet international standards and are supported by scientific evidence, fostering a preventive and proactive health system. According to Emirates News Agency, the guideline was unveiled during a two-day conference in Dubai. Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at MoHAP, along with the National Committee for Cancer Control and representatives from various health authorities, participated in the event. The participating organizations include the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, Emirates Health Services, Dubai Health Authority, Sheikh Khalifa Specialty Hospital, the Emirates Oncology Society, and AstraZeneca. The guideline prov ides an integrated framework to define cases for populations at higher risk, establishes screening eligibility criteria, and outlines data-documentation requirements for the lung cancer screening program. It ensures the public receives safe, high-quality care and facilitates timely referrals for diagnosis and treatment. The guideline aims to assess the status of lung cancer in the UAE, identify opportunities for earlier detection, and offer evidence-based recommendations to reduce incidence and mortality. Applicable to all healthcare providers in primary healthcare centers and hospitals, the guideline targets individuals aged 50 to 80 who meet specific eligibility criteria. It encourages potential candidates to undergo screening through primary healthcare visits or smoking cessation centers under the National Tobacco Control Programme. Individuals can also pre-register electronically on approved health platforms or official websites of licensed institutions. Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand highlighted that the guideline signifies the UAE's dedication to preventive healthcare and reducing cancer-related deaths. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer, including public awareness, smoking reduction, and air quality improvement, aligning with 'We the UAE 2031' and the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030. He also mentioned national legislation and preventive health policies, such as excise taxes on tobacco products and regulation of electronic nicotine products, which have led to a decline in tobacco use. Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, Head of the Non-Communicable Disease and Mental Health Department at MoHAP, pointed out that cancer is the third leading cause of death among non-communicable diseases in the UAE, accounting for 12.4% of total deaths in 2023. Despite the burden posed by cancer, most cases are preventable through early detection. The guideline aims to enable healthcare providers to diagnose lung cancer early, improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality. Dr. Buthaina also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in implementing the guideline's standards by supporting image analysis and diagnostic confirmation. Computer-aided diagnostic systems assist in reducing medical errors and serve as decision-support tools, documenting critical findings and streamlining workflows in screening centers.