Around 3,000 new cases of lung cancer are reported annually in Tunisia, with 60% detected only at an advanced stage, warned Dr. Nesrine Majri, head of the oncology department at Abderrahmen Mami Hospital, as quoted by National Radio.
Dr. Majri noted that lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers in Tunisia, largely due to late diagnosis, which significantly reduces survival chances. Speaking to National Radio, she said nearly two-thirds of patients arrive at the hospital when the disease is already advanced, a situation that “greatly limits the possibility of saving the patient.” The Ministry of Health is using this data to reinforce prevention campaigns and expand early-screening programs.
Asked about the main risk factors, the specialist stressed that smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer in the country. She pointed out that all forms of tobacco consumption—including shisha—pose an equivalent or even greater danger. “A single shisha session is equivalent to smoking an entire pack of cigarettes,” she insisted, adding that e-cigarettes and secondhand smoke also pose significant risks to lung health. Health authorities say they are ramping up awareness campaigns, particularly targeting young people, who are increasingly exposed to these habits.
The health and economic burden linked to smoking in Tunisia is becoming a growing concern. In addition to the thousands of cases diagnosed each year, lung cancer absorbs a substantial share of public oncology spending. Experts emphasise that treating a patient with advanced cancer requires far more resources than early-stage care. In this context, screening programs are seen as a necessary investment to reduce long-term pressure on the healthcare system.
To improve early detection, the Ministry of Health has launched a pilot lung cancer screening program at Abderrahmen Mami Hospital. The initiative includes free consultations and support for smoking cessation. Dr. Majri reported that 160 screenings have been conducted to date, leading to the detection of five cases at an early enough stage to allow for surgery. All five patients have recovered, underscoring the decisive impact of early diagnosis.
MK/ak/te/lb/as/APA