Algeria's Health Minister, Mohamed Seddik Aït Messaoudène, has emphasized the need to strengthen breast cancer screening among senior women, citing the country's alarming annual rate of over 14,000 new cases. Speaking at a study day on breast cancer prevention in elderly women, Aït Messaoudène highlighted that cancer has become a significant challenge for healthcare systems. The event, organized by the National Solidarity, Family, and Women's Condition Minister, Soraya Mouloudji, brought together various stakeholders in prevention and support for elderly individuals.
Aït Messaoudène stressed the importance of early detection in increasing chances of recovery and reducing the medical, social, and psychological impacts of the disease. He advocated for a coordinated effort across different sectors to encourage early screening and comprehensive care for affected women. This care would encompass medical, psychological, and social aspects, particularly for elderly women who may face difficulties accessing healthcare due to isolation or mobility issues.
The Minister called for expanding awareness and screening operations to institutions catering to elderly people, suggesting greater involvement from social workers and local cells. These actors are tasked with identifying women distant from healthcare services and directing them to specialized structures. The goal is to make medical examinations more accessible to categories that may encounter obstacles in accessing health services.
Aït Messaoudène also mentioned reinforcing diagnostic capabilities, particularly through mammography equipment and developing the skills of healthcare professionals, especially in local establishments. This aims to facilitate access to examinations and reduce the time between screening, diagnosis, and care. He noted that the journey of affected women does not end with medical treatment, but also involves psychological support, rehabilitation, and continuous accompaniment.
The Minister emphasized that a strengthened cooperation between the Health and National Solidarity sectors is necessary, with contributions from associations, media, civil society, and families. He recalled that his department already supports various awareness actions, including the organization of the Cancer Information Fair (SICAN) and the Prevention Week. Additionally, awareness spots and programs are produced in partnership with national media to promote a culture of prevention.
Aït Messaoudène urged all present officials to continue coordinating between actors to enhance prevention and improve support for affected women. He underlined that early screening is a crucial element in the care pathway, encouraging women to undergo necessary examinations. The expansion of screening to senior women is a critical step in addressing the country's breast cancer challenge.
The study day served as a platform for exchanging views and experiences on the importance of inter-sectoral coordination in breast cancer prevention, early screening, and comprehensive care for affected women. The Algerian government aims to tackle the high incidence of breast cancer by implementing these measures and promoting a culture of prevention among the population.
Key points
- Algeria records over 14,000 new breast cancer cases annually.
- The government aims to expand breast cancer screening to senior women and improve access to healthcare services.
- A coordinated effort across different sectors is necessary for effective breast cancer prevention and care.
