Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Algeria. “In 2022, 64,713 new cases were recorded, all locations combined, and 35,778 deaths due to this disease,” revealed yesterday Professor Mohamed Oukkal, head of the oncology department at the Beni Messous University Hospital and member of the National Commission for Cancer Prevention.
Speaking at a study day on breast cancer in Boumerdes, Professor Oukkal said that these figures, which are far from exhaustive, were established by the Global Cancer Observatory (Globocan), stressing that the incidence of this disease is clearly increasing. Hence the importance, he insisted, of strengthening prevention and early diagnosis. “We must especially increase screening campaigns, which is, moreover, one of the strategic axes of the national anti-cancer plan,” he indicated.
Certainly, he says, there have been improvements, but diagnosis remains late, reducing patients’ chances of recovery. Among the most common types of cancer, oncologists cite colorectal, lung, prostate, and bladder cancer in men. In women, breast cancer breaks all records, followed by colon, thyroid, and cervical cancer.
In his communication, Professor Oukkal stated that breast cancer affects more than 14,000 women each year and kills 4,000. “Some studies support that one in eight women has developed or will develop this type of cancer in Algeria or in the world,” he stressed.
Speaking on the same day, Dr. Zaidi discussed the risk factors for breast cancer, citing genetic predispositions, such as hormonal contraception, lack of breastfeeding, termination of pregnancies, etc. The oncologist also spoke of environmental factors, such as smoking, obesity, poor diet, alcohol, sedentary lifestyle, etc.
Interviewed on the sidelines of the seminar, Professor Chetouane, head of the surgery department at the EPH of Thénia, says that he operates on an average of three cases of breast cancer per week in his departments. “When the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, the patient has a 95% chance of being cured and the cost of treatment will be lower,” he explained, encouraging women to self-examine. “The woman must feel her breasts regularly. As soon as she discovers something abnormal, she must consult the doctor,” he advises.
In recent years, public authorities have made major efforts to improve the care of cancer patients. In addition to the increase in the number of radiotherapy centers and the creation of a fund dedicated to patient care, a national commission attached to the Presidency of the Republic was set up in November 2023 to establish “diligent and periodic reports on the results achieved in the field and their impact on the care of cancer patients.”
