Tunisia is facing a significant challenge in breast cancer cases, with approximately 4500 new cases reported annually. According to Dr. Khaled Rahal, head of the Tunisian Association for Breast Cancer Patients, this number is expected to increase to around 6000 cases by 2030. This surge is attributed to the country's demographic changes and an aging population. The association organized a pink walk in Tunis to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention.
Dr. Rahal emphasized that early detection is crucial in increasing chances of recovery and preventing the disease from progressing. He noted that if breast cancer is detected at a very early stage, the recovery rate can reach 100%, and patients may not require chemotherapy in most cases. The doctor also highlighted that breast cancer affects not only older women but also younger ones, with around 10-11% of cases in women under 35 years old in Tunisia.
The Tunisian Association for Breast Cancer Patients is working to raise awareness about breast cancer through various activities, including health fairs and screening campaigns. According to Malak Boudarbala, the association's general secretary, these efforts have led to the detection of around 15 cases of breast cancer per 100 women screened. The association is also providing financial and psychological support to patients, particularly those with white or yellow treatment cards.
The economic burden of breast cancer in Tunisia is substantial, with the cost of medications exceeding 200 million dinars annually. Dr. Rahal noted that this cost is likely to increase with the introduction of new, expensive medications. The association is working to address this issue by promoting early detection and providing support to patients.
The pink walk, which took place in Tunis, was part of the association's efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer during the "Pink October" campaign. The event was attended by French Ambassador to Tunisia, Anne Guigen, and featured a march, as well as educational activities on breast cancer prevention and detection.
The association's activities go beyond just screening and detection, providing psychological support to patients and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Member of the Tunisian Association for Cancer Patients, Nabila Khazri, encouraged women to prioritize regular check-ups, reduce risk factors, and adopt a balanced diet and exercise routine.
The association organizes around 10 health fairs annually, providing screening and detection services to women across Tunisia. These efforts aim to promote early detection and prevention, ultimately reducing the number of breast cancer cases and improving treatment outcomes.
Key points
- - Tunisia reports 4500 new breast cancer cases annually, with numbers expected to rise to 6000 by 2030. - Early detection is crucial in increasing chances of recovery and preventing the disease from progressing. - The association provides financial and psychological support to patients, particularly those with white or yellow treatment cards.
