On October 27, 2026, President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d'Ivoire acknowledged the country's advancements in cancer screening and treatment. In a message to the population during the "Octobre Rose" and "Novembre Bleu" awareness campaigns, the President highlighted that the five-year remission rate for breast cancer has increased to 63%, up from 30% previously. This rate significantly improves to nearly 90% with early detection.
Côte d'Ivoire faces a considerable cancer burden, with over 20,000 new cases annually. Breast cancer is the most common, accounting for 4,850 new cases per year, followed by prostate cancer. To address this, President Ouattara recalled the progressive transformation of the healthcare system since 2011. Notably, the country had no radiotherapy units before 2018 but now boasts state-of-the-art facilities.
The country's cancer care capabilities have been enhanced with the establishment of the Centre national d'oncologie médicale et de radiothérapie Alassane Ouattara (CNRAO), the Institut de médecine nucléaire d'Abidjan (IMENA), and the CHU hospitals in Treichville, Yopougon, and Bouaké, as well as the Hôpital Mère-Enfant de Bingerville. Further improvements are expected with the construction of the Centre de Grand-Bassam and the deployment of regional excellence centers nationwide.
President Ouattara emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring financial constraints do not hinder access to healthcare. Since 2019, certain expensive anticancer medications have been provided free of charge in public healthcare facilities. At the CNRAO, no treatment is delayed due to financial reasons. The President also acknowledged the efforts of First Lady Dominique Ouattara at the Hôpital Mère-Enfant de Bingerville, where 90% of children with cancer receive free care.
The President expressed his appreciation to healthcare professionals, associations, and NGOs for their dedication to supporting patients and their families. He highlighted the significant progress made in cancer care, citing the increased availability of treatments and facilities. This progress is a testament to the government's efforts to improve the healthcare system.
President Ouattara's message underscores the importance of continued awareness and action against cancer. The "Octobre Rose" and "Novembre Bleu" campaigns aim to educate the public about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. By reaffirming his commitment to accessible healthcare, the President has assured the population of the government's ongoing efforts to address the country's health challenges.
The developments in Côte d'Ivoire's healthcare system demonstrate a clear commitment to improving cancer care and treatment. With continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and services, the country is making significant strides in addressing the growing cancer burden. The government's focus on ensuring access to care for all citizens is a positive step towards achieving better health outcomes.
Key points
- President Ouattara commends progress in cancer care, highlighting a 63% five-year remission rate for breast cancer.
- The government has invested in modern healthcare facilities, including the CNRAO and IMENA.
- Financial constraints are being addressed, with free or subsidized treatments available for cancer patients.
