Overview of the Epidemiological and Economic Burden of Cancer in the Maghreb

Abstract

This regional analysis provides an updated overview of cancer burden in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, combining GLOBOCAN 2022 data, national cancer registry insights, and published societal cost-of-illness estimates.

In 2022, the Maghreb recorded nearly 149,000 new cancer cases, with breast cancer remaining the leading cancer among women and lung cancer among men. Colorectal cancer ranked among the top three cancers across both sexes.

Age-standardized incidence rates ranged from 135 to 150 per 100,000, while mortality remained substantial across the region. The 5-year prevalence reached approximately 384,000 patients, reflecting the growing long-term healthcare needs related to cancer management.

From an economic perspective, the societal cost of cancer was estimated at US$565 million in Algeria and US$573 million in Morocco, highlighting the significant impact of both direct medical costs and productivity losses. Comparable estimates are still lacking for Tunisia.

These findings underline the urgent need to strengthen cancer registries, improve resource allocation, and support evidence-based investment strategies to reduce mortality and the overall economic burden across the Maghreb region.

Full analysis

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