The UAE free mammograms initiative by myAster has unlocked 1,900 breast cancer screenings after participants logged over 19 million steps. Women can book eligible screenings until December 31, 2026.

DUBAI: A community walking campaign in the UAE has unlocked 1,900 free breast cancer screenings after residents collectively recorded more than 19 million steps through the myAster healthcare app.

The UAE free mammograms initiative, called Walk for Her, is organised by myAster in collaboration with Aster Clinics UAE as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

According to organisers, 236 screenings were claimed within the first 13 days of the campaign, highlighting growing participation in an initiative that connects everyday physical activity with preventive healthcare.

How can 10,000 steps unlock a free breast screening?

The concept is simple: every 10,000 steps recorded through the myAster app helps fund a free breast health screening for a woman.

Residents can participate by registering for the Walk for Her challenge, connecting a compatible health-tracking application and allowing their daily steps to be counted.

Both men and women can contribute, making the initiative a community-wide effort to support women’s health.

The official campaign terms specify that the walking challenge runs from October 1 to 28, 2026.

Who can claim the free mammograms?

Women can book a free breast health consultation through the myAster app at Aster Clinic Jubilee, subject to eligibility and appointment availability.

A doctor will assess whether a mammogram or clinical breast examination is appropriate, depending on individual circumstances.

Appointments funded through the campaign can be booked until December 31, 2026.

The UAE free mammograms campaign therefore encourages participation while helping eligible women access professional breast health assessments.

Why does early breast cancer detection matter?

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide.

Timely screening can help identify certain cancers before noticeable symptoms develop, allowing appropriate treatment to begin earlier.

However, screening recommendations vary according to age, medical history and individual risk factors. Women should consult healthcare professionals to understand which tests are suitable for them.

Dr Sherbaz Bichu, Group Chief Operating Officer for the GCC at Aster DM Healthcare, emphasised that screening must be accessible and followed by timely medical care.

How to participate in Walk for Her

Residents can join through the myAster website or mobile application.

After joining the challenge, participants can track their steps and contribute towards funding additional breast health checks.

Participants can also share personal stories using #WalkForHer to encourage greater awareness.

Aster says the initiative forms part of its wider effort to make preventive healthcare more accessible through digital services.

Impact to expect

The campaign could encourage more UAE residents to adopt regular physical activity while improving awareness of breast cancer screening. By converting community participation into funded medical assessments, the initiative may help eligible women overcome some financial barriers to preventive healthcare.