In the Tunisian region of Kasserine, a total of 13,500 women benefited from clinical breast cancer screening as part of the 2026 October Rose campaign. The campaign aimed to promote early detection and provide access to medical care for women in the region. According to Raoudha Bouzidi, the responsible person for information and national programs at the Kasserine Regional Health Directorate, nearly 900 women were referred for mammography exams and 300 for ultrasound exams.
The screening exams, conducted in both public and private sectors, led to the detection of approximately 12 cases requiring urgent medical intervention. The women concerned were referred to specialist doctors to further investigate, determine the stage of the disease, and define the appropriate medical care. Bouzidi emphasized that these exams were part of the region's health services efforts to strengthen early breast cancer screening and provide accessible diagnostic and screening services.
The October Rose campaign included various awareness and information activities targeting different socio-professional categories in Kasserine. These activities took place in schools, factories, directorates, vocational training centers, and university residences, as well as among agricultural workers and rural women. Additionally, open days were organized in basic health centers across the region, enabling women, particularly those in rural areas, to benefit from clinical screening exams.
The campaign allowed women to receive information on the importance of regular medical follow-up and consulting health structures if any unusual changes occur. Bouzidi recalled that efforts to detect and screen for breast cancer are not limited to the October Rose month but continue throughout the year. The region's basic health centers remain accessible to women for clinical exams performed by midwives and doctors.
The Kasserine Regional Health Directorate organized several activities to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection. These activities were designed to educate women on the importance of regular check-ups and to encourage them to seek medical attention if they notice any unusual symptoms. By doing so, the directorate aims to reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
According to Bouzidi, the October Rose campaign is an opportunity to intensify awareness actions, but the efforts to detect and screen for breast cancer continue beyond this month. The directorate's goal is to make breast cancer screening a regular part of women's healthcare in the region. To achieve this, the directorate will continue to provide accessible and affordable screening services.
The October Rose campaign in Kasserine has contributed to increasing awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection in the region. With over 13,500 women screened, the campaign has helped to identify cases that require medical attention and has encouraged women to prioritize their health. The campaign's success highlights the importance of continued efforts to promote breast cancer awareness and provide accessible screening services.
Key points
- Over 13,500 women in Kasserine benefited from breast cancer screening as part of the October Rose campaign.
- The campaign led to the detection of approximately 12 cases requiring urgent medical intervention.
- Breast cancer screening efforts will continue throughout the year, not just during the October Rose month.
