The Challenge of Late-Stage Prostate Cancer Diagnosis in Morocco: A Comprehensive Mini-Review
TL;DR
This mini-review examines the epidemiological burden of prostate cancer in Morocco, identifies the multilevel barriers contributing to late diagnosis, including the absence of organized screening programs, limited public awareness, healthcare system constraints, and socioeconomic factors, and discusses current national cancer control efforts.
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common male malignancy in Morocco and a growing public health concern across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Despite a rising incidence, the majority of prostate cancer cases in Morocco and similar low- and middle-income settings continue to be diagnosed at advanced stages, contributing to poor survival outcomes and a disproportionately high mortality-to-incidence ratio compared with high-income countries. This mini-review examines the epidemiological burden of prostate cancer in Morocco, identifies the multilevel barriers contributing to late diagnosis, including the absence of organized screening programs, limited public awareness, healthcare system constraints, and socioeconomic factors, and discusses current national cancer control efforts and future perspectives for improving early detection.