Imagine being able to foil breast cancer's plans before it even strikes hard. That is exactly what breast cancer screening makes possible: a proactive approach that saves lives every day. In our Maghreb countries, this disease is no joke: it affects one woman in ten and accounts for nearly 40% of cancers in women.
Breast Cancer Screening: Why It Is Your Absolute Priority
Figures That Speak for Themselves
Recent statistics reveal a worrying reality in our region. In Tunisia, more than 4,400 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in 2024, while in Algeria 15,000 new patients join this battle every year, with a tragic 3,500 deaths annually. In Morocco, breast cancer accounts for 39.1% of all cancers in women, according to the 2018-2021 registry.
Here, however, is the good news: diagnosed early, breast cancer shows a remarkable survival rate. In Morocco, 64.5% of cases are now detected at stages I and II, allowing for far more effective treatment.
When Breast Cancer Screening Makes the Difference
Early detection completely transforms the prognosis. Contrary to received wisdom, a cancer found early is no longer a sentence but rather a challenge that can be overcome. Women screened at early stages benefit from less invasive treatments, faster recovery and, above all, chances of recovery approaching 90%.
"Women screened at early stages benefit from less invasive treatments, faster recovery and, above all, chances of recovery approaching 90%."
How Breast Cancer Screening Works in Our Countries
National Programmes in Action
Each Maghreb country has developed its own strategy:
In Tunisia, the Salah Azaiez Institute leads screening efforts with a focus on clinical breast examination from the age of 30. The infrastructure is being strengthened step by step, despite a still modest participation rate of 10%.
In Morocco, the National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan (PNPCC) relies on clinical examination for women aged 45 to 69. The country now has 55 reproductive health reference centres and 24 mobile mammography units to reach remote areas.
In Algeria, despite logistical challenges, the health authorities are developing national awareness campaigns with the support of associations such as El Amel.
Breast Cancer Screening Examinations: How They Work
The first line of defence against the disease, this examination can be carried out by your general practitioner, gynaecologist or midwife. Simple and painless, it detects palpable abnormalities and forms the basis of screening in our region.
Although less accessible than in developed countries, mammography remains the gold-standard examination. This specialised X-ray can reveal lesions invisible to the touch, often several years before they become palpable.
The images obtained are graded using the ACR (American College of Radiology) classification:
- ACR 1: Normal mammogram
- ACR 2: Benign abnormality, no follow-up needed
- ACR 3: Follow-up recommended
- ACR 4-5: Suspicious abnormalities requiring further examinations
Who Should Have Breast Cancer Screening?
Women at Standard Risk
National programmes generally target:
| Country | Recommended screening age |
|---|---|
| Tunisia | Women from the age of 30 |
| Morocco | Women aged 45 to 69 |
| Algeria | Women from the age of 25 under certain protocols |
Women at High Risk
Certain particular situations call for closer monitoring:
- A family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2)
- A personal history of breast lesions
- Chest radiotherapy before the age of 30
These women often benefit from personalised follow-up with more frequent examinations and, at times, breast MRI.
Breast Cancer Screening: Overcoming the Obstacles
The Challenges of Our Region
Our health systems face complex realities. Screening coverage rates remain low: around 10% in Tunisia for clinical breast examination. Access to equipment remains uneven between urban and rural areas.
Innovative Solutions
Fortunately, promising initiatives are emerging. Mobile mammography units in Morocco make it possible to reach isolated populations. In Tunisia, Pink October campaigns mobilise more women every year. Algeria is investing in the training of primary health care staff.
Beyond Screening: Your Active Role
Self-Examination: Your Everyday Ally
Between screening appointments, stay alert. Monthly self-examination, ideally after your period, can reveal changes. Look for:
- New lumps or thickened areas
- Changes in the shape or size of the breast
- Retraction or puckering of the skin
- Nipple discharge
- Changes in the appearance of the skin
Lifestyle and Prevention
Breast cancer screening is ideally accompanied by preventive measures:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Taking regular physical exercise
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Favouring breastfeeding where possible
- Avoiding unnecessary exposure to hormones
The Future of Breast Cancer Screening in the Maghreb
The outlook is encouraging. Investment in health infrastructure, staff training and awareness campaigns is gradually bearing fruit. In Morocco, survival at 5 years now reaches 80.6%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the efforts made.
The digitalisation of healthcare is also opening up new possibilities. Mobile reminder apps, telemedicine for isolated areas and artificial intelligence for analysing mammograms represent the future of screening.
Your Health, Your Responsibility
Breast cancer screening is not solely a matter for doctors and hospitals. It is a partnership between you and health professionals. Your vigilance, your regularity in follow-up and your commitment to a healthy lifestyle are the pillars of this winning strategy.
Remember: every woman screened early is a life potentially saved. In our societies in full transition, where ways of living are changing fast, breast cancer screening is your best insurance for the future.
Don't let breast cancer get ahead of you. Book your screening appointment today. Your family, your loved ones and you yourself deserve it.
