Algeria faces a significant challenge in cancer diagnosis and treatment, with 50,000 new cases recorded annually. The province of Tizi-Ouzou accounts for 12,000 of these cases. Professor Kamel Bouzid, an oncologist, highlighted these statistics during the 2nd Continuous Training Days in Oncology held at the Aissat Rabah hemicycle of the Tizi-Ouzou Provincial Assembly.
The cancer landscape in Algeria is concerning, with breast cancer being the leading cause of mortality among women. According to Professor Bouzid, early detection is crucial in reducing treatment costs and improving patient outcomes. When detected early, the cost of treatment is significantly lower, at 600,000 Algerian dinars (DA) per case per year, compared to 1 billion DA when the disease has progressed.
The medical community in Algeria is predominantly female, with 90% of medical and paramedical personnel being women. This facilitates easier intervention for breast cancer screening and treatment. Professor Bouzid expressed pride in the newly opened Cancer Treatment Center (CAC) in Draâ Ben Khedda, which will enhance cancer detection and treatment in the region.
The 2nd Continuous Training Days in Oncology focused on breast cancer, with experts discussing various aspects of the disease, including epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment. The event was attended by medical professionals, students, and officials, including the Wali of Tizi-Ouzou, Abdelhakim Chater. The Wali emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment in reducing mortality rates and improving patient outcomes.
The Algerian government has prioritized the fight against cancer, with the President of the Republic launching a national program to combat the disease. Fifteen cancer treatment centers have been established nationwide, including one in Tizi-Ouzou, which has partially opened its doors to patients. The center is expected to increase its capacity to treat 150 patients per day.
The association Tujya, which has been working to raise awareness about cancer since 2003, has called for the reactivation of a wilaya-level committee to coordinate efforts to combat the disease. The association's president emphasized the need for a concerted effort to address the growing concern of cancer in Algeria.
The Continuous Training Days in Oncology featured various sessions and workshops, with experts sharing their knowledge on breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. The event aimed to enhance the skills of medical professionals and improve cancer care in Algeria. Key points discussed included the importance of early detection, the role of medical professionals in cancer care, and the need for a comprehensive approach to address the disease.
Key points
- Algeria records 50,000 new cancer cases annually, with breast cancer being the leading cause of mortality among women.
- Early detection of cancer can significantly reduce treatment costs and improve patient outcomes.
- The Algerian government has prioritized the fight against cancer, with a national program and 15 cancer treatment centers established nationwide.
