Côte d’Ivoire is intensifying efforts to improve access to cancer care, placing particular emphasis on reducing the financial burden faced by patients as the country marks Pink October and Blue November, annual awareness campaigns focused on breast and prostate cancer.
Health authorities and advocacy groups are using the campaigns to promote early detection and encourage greater public awareness of two of the country’s most prevalent cancers while highlighting ongoing investments in treatment and healthcare infrastructure.
According to figures cited in a recent official statement, more than 20,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in Côte d’Ivoire each year. Breast cancer remains the most common form of the disease, with an estimated 4,850 new cases recorded annually, followed by prostate cancer.
The growing cancer burden has underscored the need for improved screening services, affordable treatment options and expanded healthcare capacity to enhance patient outcomes.
Reducing the Cost of Treatment
Access to affordable treatment remains a central component of Côte d’Ivoire’s cancer response strategy.
Since 2019, the government has made a number of high-cost cancer medicines available free of charge in public health facilities, a measure aimed at easing the financial pressure on patients and their families.
At the Alassane Ouattara National Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy Centre (CNRAO), treatment is reportedly not delayed because of a patient’s inability to pay, according to the statement.
The policy reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that access to life-saving care is not determined by financial means. Health experts, however, note that continued efforts will be required to guarantee equitable access to diagnosis and treatment services, particularly for vulnerable populations and those living outside major urban centres.
Expanding Cancer Care Infrastructure
The country has also made significant progress in strengthening its cancer treatment infrastructure.
Before 2018, Côte d’Ivoire had no radiotherapy unit. Today, cancer care is provided through several specialized institutions, including the CNRAO, the University Teaching Hospitals of Treichville, Yopougon and Bouaké, the Abidjan Institute of Nuclear Medicine (IMENA), and the Mother and Child Hospital of Bingerville.
Authorities are planning additional investments, including a future treatment centre in Grand-Bassam and the development of regional centres of excellence.
The expansion is expected to improve access to specialized care and reduce the geographical barriers that often prevent patients from receiving timely treatment.
Early Detection Boosts Survival Rates
Health officials say advances in screening and treatment are contributing to improved outcomes, particularly for women diagnosed with breast cancer.
According to figures cited in the statement, 63 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are now in remission five years after diagnosis, compared with 30 percent previously. When the disease is detected at an early stage, remission rates reportedly increase to nearly 90 percent.
The figures reinforce the critical role of early detection, routine screening and public awareness in reducing cancer-related deaths.
Medical professionals and civil society organizations continue to encourage individuals to recognize warning signs and seek prompt medical attention, emphasizing that early intervention significantly improves treatment success.
Recognition for Continued Support
The statement also acknowledged the contribution of First Lady Dominique Ouattara in supporting cancer patients, particularly children undergoing treatment.
Approximately 90 percent of pediatric patients receiving care at the Mother and Child Hospital of Bingerville reportedly benefit from free treatment.
Healthcare workers, patient advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations were also recognized for their ongoing efforts to provide support and care for cancer patients and their families.
Sustaining Progress
As Pink October and Blue November focus national attention on breast and prostate cancer, Côte d’Ivoire continues to confront the challenge of translating healthcare investments into accessible and affordable care for all citizens.
While progress has been made in expanding treatment capacity and reducing financial barriers, strengthening early detection programmes, widening access to specialized services and ensuring sustainable funding remain crucial to improving survival rates and saving lives in the years ahead.
