Breast cancer treatment in Tunisia has evolved to become more personalized, taking into account the specific characteristics of the tumor, its stage, and extent of spread. According to specialists, the choice of treatment plan is based on various factors, including tumor size, stage, and biological properties. This approach enables doctors to tailor treatment to each patient's needs, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of these options.
The treatment of breast cancer in Tunisia now prioritizes not only the medical aspect but also the psychological and aesthetic well-being of patients. Dr. Hanane Bouaziz, a professor of oncology surgery at the Salah Azouz Institute, notes that significant progress has been made in breast cancer treatment and surgery in recent years. Many of these advanced techniques are available at the institute and are performed by specialized doctors.
Breast cancer surgery now considers the psychological and aesthetic aspects of patients, in addition to the therapeutic aspect. Dr. Bouaziz explains that tumor removal surgeries can be followed by breast reconstruction or repair operations, or the placement of artificial implants, which helps restore the breast's shape and improves the patient's self-image after treatment.
Some patients may benefit from using tissue from the abdominal area to repair the breast, which can also improve the appearance of the abdominal area. Dr. Bouaziz emphasizes that the national "Pink October" campaign for early breast cancer screening has significantly raised awareness about the importance of early detection.
However, Dr. Bouaziz notes that the current challenge is to move from awareness to action, encouraging people to undergo regular check-ups. She believes that Tunisia is no longer in the stage of introducing the disease and the importance of screening, but rather in the stage of encouraging people to take action and undergo necessary examinations, including mammography.
Dr. Ines Ben Hassan Zekrawi, a specialist in medical imaging, stresses that the significant progress in breast cancer treatment should not overshadow the importance of prevention and early screening. She notes that in Tunisia, breast cancer cases are being recorded in women under the age of 35.
The "Pink October" campaign, which aims to promote early breast cancer screening, has included lectures and awareness-raising activities, as well as free screening services for the public. The campaign is organized in collaboration with various partners, including the Higher Institute of Biological Sciences and Applied Sciences in Tunis and the National Council of the Order of Pharmacists in Tunisia.
Key points
- Breast cancer treatment in Tunisia now considers aesthetic and psychological aspects
- The national "Pink October" campaign has raised awareness about early breast cancer screening
- Specialists stress the importance of prevention, early screening, and regular check-ups
