Prostate cancer in Morocco: a pressing health challenge

Tuesday 06 May 2025 - 17:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Prostate cancer in Morocco: a pressing health challenge

Prostate cancer stands as a significant public health concern in Morocco. Accounting for 16.1% of male cancer cases, the disease affects nearly 5,000 men each year. At a recent conference held in Marrakech by the Moroccan Association for Prostate Health, experts, physicians, and researchers outlined a troubling state of affairs while highlighting promising advancements in the fight against this condition.

A late diagnosis

One of the most alarming findings presented by specialists is that half of prostate cancer cases in Morocco are diagnosed at an advanced stage. This late detection severely diminishes the chances of recovery and complicates treatment. Several factors contribute to this delay: a lack of awareness, cultural taboos surrounding the disease, and reluctance to undergo medical examinations. Procedures such as digital rectal exams and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, which are simple and accessible, remain underutilized. Experts emphasize the importance of early screening starting at age 50, or at 45 for men with family histories or other risk factors.

Technological advancements that inspire hope

Despite these challenges, notable medical advancements offer new prospects for treating prostate cancer. Among them, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology has garnered significant attention. This non-invasive method effectively destroys localized tumors without the severe side effects associated with traditional surgery, such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction. Ahmed El Mansouri, president of the Moroccan Association for Prostate Health, noted that this technology is now available in the kingdom. Studies indicate that up to 95% of patients treated with HIFU show no signs of cancer one year post-treatment while maintaining a satisfactory quality of life.

Inequality in access to care: a major obstacle

However, access to care remains deeply unequal across Morocco. While major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech boast modern facilities and qualified specialists, rural areas are largely underserved. Many patients from remote regions struggle to obtain treatments, whether for surgery, radiotherapy, or advanced hormonal therapies. Additionally, the often prohibitive cost of care presents another barrier for many families. These disparities underscore the urgent need for public health policies aimed at ensuring equal access to healthcare for all citizens.

Awareness and mobilization: promising initiatives

Alongside scientific discussions, awareness initiatives are proliferating. For instance, a popular run titled "Let’s all run against prostate cancer" was organized in Marrakech alongside the conference. Such events aim to break the taboo surrounding the disease and encourage men to undergo regular screenings. The role of associations and media campaigns is crucial for changing mindsets and strengthening prevention efforts.

A growing threat for the decades to come

Prostate cancer is part of a broader issue: cancer as a whole is the second leading cause of mortality in Morocco, with approximately 40,000 new cases each year. Experts’ projections are concerning: the annual number of prostate cancer diagnoses could double in the next ten years, potentially reaching 10,000 cases, rivaling lung cancer.

In the face of this threat, Morocco possesses considerable assets. Technological advancements such as HIFU, combined with growing medical expertise, offer promising solutions. However, the fight against prostate cancer requires collective mobilization. Healthcare professionals, public authorities, and civil society must unite their efforts to improve prevention, reduce inequalities in access to care, and systematically integrate technological innovations into treatment protocols.

Toward a more promising future

The battle against prostate cancer is far from lost. With coordinated actions and heightened awareness, Morocco can meet this health challenge. The objective is clear: to reduce mortality linked to prostate cancer and ensure equitable access to quality care for every patient. This fight, which concerns all sectors of society, is now a national priority.