Burden of Uterine Fibroids in Women Presenting to Healthcare Facilities in the UAE: A cross sectional study

Uterine fibroids (UF) are common benign tumors with wide global prevalence and higher rates in African American and Middle Eastern women. Key risk factors include high BMI and early menarche, yet awareness remains low. UF can cause heavy bleeding, pain, and fertility issues. A UAE-based study was conducted to assess UF prevalence and awareness to support targeted prevention efforts.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between women aged 18 years and above, from various nationalities, who approached healthcare facilities in the UAE. Participants were enrolled after providing informed consent. A validated, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic, clinical, obstetric, and family history data. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were employed to assess associations and predictors.

the study included 778 participants, response rate of 93% , the prevalence of diagnosed uterine fibroids was 11.1% (n=86). Statistically significant associations were found between UF and age (p<0.001), marital status (p<0.001), education level (p<0.001), obesity (p=0.006), family history (p<0.001), miscarriage history (p<0.001), and infertility (p<0.001). Logistic regression
identified several key predictors: older age (OR=20.1, CI: 1.9–213.5, p=0.013), family history of UF (OR=3.3, CI: 1.8–5.9, p<0.001), menopause (OR=4.6, CI: 2.1–9.8, p<0.001), heavy menstrual bleeding (OR=2.6, CI: 1.4–4.8, p=0.002), and hormonal imbalance (OR=2.2, CI: 1.2–3.9, p=0.008). Additionally, early menarche, prolonged periods, and higher parity were also significantly associated with UF.

More than one in ten women in this UAE sample had uterine fibroids (11.1%). Older age, reproductive and hormonal factors, along with family history, were key predictors. These results emphasize the need for targeted screening and early detection efforts supported by culturally responsive public health initiatives.