Tunisian healthcare professionals are sounding the alarm on the increasing incidence of breast cancer in the country. According to Dr. Abdelkhalek Houssini, head of the obstetrics and gynecology department at the University Hospital of Gabès, Tunisia currently records between 4,000 and 4,500 new breast cancer cases every year. This number is expected to rise to approximately 6,000 cases annually by 2030.
Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer among women in Tunisia, accounting for 30% of all female cancers. Dr. Houssini attributes the increasing incidence of the disease to changes in the lifestyle of Tunisians. Factors such as obesity, environmental and food pollution, smoking, and alcohol consumption are cited as major contributors to the rising numbers. The doctor also notes that the decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates is a significant concern.
Breastfeeding provides protection against breast cancer, with a 60-70% reduction in risk. However, Tunisia's exclusive breastfeeding rate for the first six months of life is only 17.8%, significantly lower than the global average of 48%. Dr. Houssini emphasizes the importance of adopting healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to prevent breast cancer.
Genetic factors contribute to 5-10% of breast cancer cases in Tunisia. Some high-risk individuals opt for preventive mastectomies, which are performed in the country. Dr. Houssini stresses the importance of early screening through mammography, recommending that women start at age 39 or 40 for average-risk cases and age 35 for those with a family history of the disease.
The doctor advises that a mammogram every three years is sufficient if the initial screening is normal. He also emphasizes that self-examination is not enough, and women should undergo regular medical check-ups. The financial burden of breast cancer treatment is significant, with expensive chemotherapy medications straining the healthcare budget.
Dr. Houssini calls for a return to traditional healthy habits, such as the Mediterranean diet, and regular physical activity to prevent breast cancer. The doctor's warnings come as Tunisia prepares to receive new medical equipment, including three cranes, at the Port of Radès. The country's healthcare system is working to improve its infrastructure and services.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched a digital platform for managing mosque resources, while the Ministry of Equipment is set to launch a tender for a project to upgrade the Sfax-Kasserine national highway. These developments aim to improve various aspects of life in Tunisia, from healthcare to infrastructure.
Key points
- Tunisia records approximately 4,500 new breast cancer cases annually.
- Breast cancer is expected to rise to around 6,000 cases annually by 2030.
- Early screening and healthy habits can help prevent breast cancer.
