A similar study is available from Saudi Arabia. Future epidemiological studies will be of great importance in the detection of the specific etiologic factors. This relative low frequency of breast cancer in the UAE and Omani nationals seems to be related to the common habits of early pregnancy, multiparity and breast feeding, which are known to have a protective effect against breast cancer. The reason for the high incidence of skin cancer in the UAE is not clear, but may be due to the use of pesticide and fertilizer among the expatriate farming population. Again, this can be explained by the common habits of early marriage and multiparity among the local population.
Evidence exists supporting the association of such factors with a high incidence of cervical cancer.
It is worth mentioning that the frequency of cervical cancer appears to be higher in the UAE than in Saudi Arabia, in spite of similarities between the two cultures. Studies from Saudi Arabia showed a similar pattern. The reason for this high incidence of lymphoma in the Gulf area is not clear. Possibly viral, genetic or environmental factors may play a role. This higher frequency in males may simply be due to longer exposure to sunlight.