Published: September 2025

Dr. Dima Abduljabbar continues to remain at the forefront of evidence-based care with a focus on complex cases at the intersection of oncology and women’s health. One area gaining renewed attention is the management of breast cancer during pregnancy, highlighted in the latest release of Green-top Guideline No. 12, developed to provide clear, multidisciplinary guidance for clinicians treating this rare but serious condition.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in the UK and many other parts of the world, with about 9% of cases diagnosed in women aged 44 and under. As more women choose to delay pregnancy, the incidence of breast cancer during pregnancy is expected to rise. Currently, 1 in 3000 pregnancies is complicated by a new diagnosis of breast cancer.

Green-top Guideline No. 12—now in its third edition—addresses the nuanced care required for this unique patient population. The guideline offers a comprehensive framework for diagnosing, managing, and treating breast cancer during and immediately after pregnancy. It also includes long-term considerations for fertility preservation and family planning in women with a past breast cancer diagnosis.

“These updated guidelines represent a significant step forward in supporting women who face both the joys and fears of pregnancy while battling or recovering from breast cancer,” said Dr. Dima Abduljabbar. “Our clinical decisions must be both safe and sensitive—tailored not only to cancer outcomes but also to maternal and fetal health.”

Key topics from the guideline include:

• Diagnostic pathways that minimize fetal risk

• Timing and selection of chemotherapy during pregnancy

• Safe surgical options and anesthesia considerations

• Breastfeeding recommendations

• Fertility preservation strategies prior to cancer treatment

For Dr. Dima Abduljabbar, integrating such guidelines into her clinical practice is essential. She is committed to providing compassionate, state-of-the-art care to women navigating reproductive decisions amid cancer diagnoses.

As breast cancer survival rates continue to improve—with 85% of women under 39 surviving at least five years post-diagnosis—more patients are considering pregnancy after cancer. This evolving reality requires not only medical expertise but also a deep understanding of emotional, ethical, and lifestyle factors involved.