# Epidemiological profile of breast cancer patients: descriptive study at the Laâyoune Sakia El Hamra Region Oncology Center

## TL;DR

This study describes the breast cancer patient profile in southern Morocco, showing higher incidence in older women and highlights the need for targeted screening strategies.

## Contribution

The study provides a detailed epidemiological profile of breast cancer patients in the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra region, emphasizing age-related trends and diagnostic patterns.

## Key findings

- 54.4% of breast cancer cases occurred in women over 50 years old.
- 84.4% of patients were diagnosed at stage I, with 15% having double, triple, or squamous cell carcinoma.
- Breast cancer is more common in older women in this region, suggesting a need for age-targeted screening strategies.

## Abstract

This research, conducted in the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra Region in southern Morocco from January 2021 to December 2022, aims to describe the epidemiological profile of cancer patients at the Laâyoune Oncology Center. By following 90 patients who were under observation at the oncology center, the study sought to provide comprehensive insights into their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The study used a two-part questionnaire administered to 90 cancer patients at an ocular oncology center. The first part collected sociodemographic data such as age, marital status and place of residence, and the second part focused on clinical details including stage of diagnosis and treatment. It was found that the incidence of cancer among women over the age of 50 years in this study was 54.4%. Grade 1 was classified as high-grade, while grades 2 and 3 were not negative for hormone receptors. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of risk factors or clinical parameters. However, the placebo group showed a greater preference for mammograms. About 84.4% of patients were diagnosed at stage I, while 15% showed double, triple or squamous cell carcinoma. No significant time differences were observed. Treatment details were available for more than 90% of patients and 3.3% of them underwent surgery with chemotherapy and/or radiation. The study revealed that breast cancer among older women patients is more common than in younger women in the study area. The study confirms the need for specific strategies for cancer screening and management in this region and to take necessary measures.