Pink October in Morocco : A call to action for breast and cervical cancer prevention

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection announced today the launch of the national campaign to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancers, as part of the celebration of «Pink October», the month of mobilization and awareness about these two cancers.

The campaign, which runs from October 1 to 31 under the slogan «Your screening is safe and reassuring», aims to raise awareness among women of all ages about the importance of early detection of breast and cervical cancers.

As part of the national plan for the prevention and control of cancer, a structured program for the early detection of breast and cervical cancers has been put in place, which has made it possible to enhance the supply of treatments for early screening, diagnosis, and management of these two types of cancer.

Early detection has been integrated into primary health care, strengthened by the construction and equipping of 55 reproductive health reference centers. Additionally, the acquisition of 24 mobile mammography units has ensured access to diagnostic services for women in remote areas.

During this campaign, several initiatives are being implemented to facilitate women's access to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment in the best conditions, in addition to strengthening partnerships with other ministerial sectors, non-governmental organizations, civil society associations, and various stakeholders in this field.

These efforts have made it possible to diagnose 64.5 percent of breast cancer cases in the first and second stages, ensuring more effective treatment.

Breast and cervical cancers are the most common cancers among women in Morocco, with breast cancer accounting for 39.1 percent of all female cancers and cervical cancer accounting for 6.5 percent, according to the latest Cancer Registry report for 2018-2021.