Breast Cancer in the Middle East and North Africa: Economic Burden, Market Trends, and Care Challenges.

Abstract

Breast cancer remains a critical global health challenge, with a high incidence rate and significant mortality. In 2022, it was the second most diagnosed cancer worldwide and ranked as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region faces considerable challenges in managing this burden. Among all WHO regions, MENA is projected to experience the highest increase in cancer cases over the coming decades, primarily because of population growth, aging, and lifestyle changes. Extensive analyses of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 have revealed a near doubling of breast cancer incidence and prevalence across MENA countries between 1990 and 2019, accompanied by a threefold increase in related mortality. The region also faces unique challenges, including late-stage diagnosis, limited access to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options, disparities in health care infrastructure, and financial constraints affecting treatment accessibility. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the economic burden of breast cancer in MENA, exploring key market trends and growth drivers in both the diagnostics and therapeutics sectors. It also highlights various national initiatives implemented to address the growing burden of breast cancer and outlines recommendations to bridge existing gaps, enhance early detection, improve treatment outcomes, and strengthen health care systems to better manage the disease in the region.