Breast Cancer Screening in Morocco: When, Where and How to Get Screened

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Morocco, accounting for more than one-third of cancers affecting women. The good news is that when breast cancer is detected at an early stage, it can be cured in the vast majority of cases, often with less intensive treatments. Breast cancer screening is therefore one of the most important steps women can take to protect their health.

In this article, Docdialy explains breast cancer screening in Morocco, including the national screening program, available screening tests, recommended screening ages, and how to access care quickly.

Breast Cancer Screening vs. Diagnosis: What Is the Difference?

Screening and diagnosis are not the same thing:

• Screening is intended for women who have no symptoms. Its purpose is to detect abnormalities before they cause noticeable signs.

• Diagnosis is performed when a woman has a symptom or abnormal finding, such as a lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes, and requires further tests to determine the cause.

In both situations, seeking medical advice early can improve the chances of detecting breast cancer at an earlier stage and achieving a better outcome.

The National Breast Cancer Screening Program in Morocco

Since 2010, Morocco has had a National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan, supported by the Lalla Salma Foundation – Prevention and Treatment of Cancers in partnership with the Ministry of Health. The program has helped expand breast cancer screening services across public healthcare centers.

The national program includes:

• A clinical breast examination, offered free of charge at public health centers by a doctor or midwife.

• Priority screening for women aged 45 to 69.

• If an abnormality or concern is detected, women may be referred to a reproductive health referral center for a mammogram and, when necessary, a breast ultrasound.

• If breast cancer is confirmed, care continues at an oncology center.

Practical details such as the target age, eligibility, availability and participating centers may change over time. Women are therefore encouraged to check with their local health center or the Ministry of Health for the latest information.

Some specialists may also recommend regular screening starting at age 40, depending on individual risk factors and medical history. Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to begin screening earlier or follow a personalized screening schedule.

Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Tests

1. Clinical Breast Examination

A clinical breast examination is performed by a doctor, gynecologist or midwife. It involves examining and feeling the breasts and the areas around the armpits.

The examination is quick and generally painless. It can help identify palpable lumps or other abnormalities that require further investigation.

2. Mammogram

A mammogram is the standard imaging test used for breast cancer screening. It uses low-dose X-rays to produce detailed images of the breasts.

A mammogram can detect certain abnormalities and lesions that are only a few millimeters in size, sometimes before they can be felt during a physical examination.

The procedure usually takes only a few minutes. Breast compression can be uncomfortable for some women, but the discomfort is generally brief.

3. Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound does not use X-rays. It is often used alongside mammography, particularly in younger women or women with dense breast tissue.

It can also help doctors distinguish between a fluid-filled structure, such as a cyst, and a solid mass.

4. Breast MRI

Breast MRI is not routinely used for everyone. It is generally reserved for specific situations, such as:

• Women at very high risk of breast cancer, including some women with a BRCA mutation or a strong family history.

• Assessing the extent of a cancer before treatment.

• Situations where mammography and ultrasound do not provide enough information.

Your doctor will determine whether a breast MRI is appropriate based on your individual risk and medical situation.

5. Biopsy

If an imaging test identifies a suspicious abnormality, a biopsy may be performed.

During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed and analyzed in a laboratory. A biopsy is the definitive way to determine whether a suspicious lesion is cancerous.

Not every abnormality found during screening is cancer.

At What Age Should You Get Breast Cancer Screening?

The appropriate screening schedule depends on your age, personal risk and family history.

From age 20–25

Become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. Pay attention to any new or unusual changes and report them to a healthcare professional.

From age 40

Discuss regular clinical breast examinations with your doctor and whether mammography is appropriate for you based on your individual risk.

From age 45 to 69

This is the age group primarily targeted by Morocco's national breast cancer screening program. Mammography may be recommended at regular intervals according to medical advice and the applicable screening program.

Earlier screening for women at high risk

Women may need to start screening earlier if they have significant risk factors, such as:

• A close relative with breast or ovarian cancer.

• A known genetic mutation associated with breast cancer, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.

• Previous radiation therapy to the chest.

In these situations, your doctor can establish a personalized screening schedule.

What Does a Mammogram Result Mean?

Mammography results are generally classified using the BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) scale, ranging from 0 to 6:

• BI-RADS 0: The examination is incomplete and additional imaging is required.

• BI-RADS 1: No abnormality is detected.

• BI-RADS 2: A benign finding is identified; routine screening is generally recommended.

• BI-RADS 3: A probably benign finding requiring short-term follow-up.

• BI-RADS 4: A suspicious abnormality; a biopsy may be recommended.

• BI-RADS 5: A highly suspicious abnormality; a biopsy is generally recommended.

• BI-RADS 6: Cancer has already been confirmed by biopsy.

A result that requires further investigation does not automatically mean that you have breast cancer. Many abnormalities detected during breast screening are ultimately found to be benign.

If you receive a result that requires additional tests, speak with your doctor and follow the recommended follow-up without unnecessary delay.

What Are the Limitations of Breast Cancer Screening?

Breast cancer screening is an important tool, but no screening test is perfect.

• A normal mammogram does not completely rule out breast cancer. If you notice a new symptom between screenings, consult a healthcare professional even if your last mammogram was normal.

• False-positive results can occur. They may cause anxiety and lead to additional imaging or biopsies before a benign finding is confirmed.

• Screening does not prevent breast cancer. Its purpose is to detect the disease as early as possible, when treatment can be more effective.

How Can You Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk?

Some lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of breast cancer:

• Stay physically active on a regular basis.

• Maintain a healthy weight, particularly after menopause.

• Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking.

• Breastfeed when possible and appropriate.

• Talk to your doctor before starting long-term hormone therapy.

These measures do not eliminate the risk of breast cancer, which is why appropriate screening remains important.

Where Can You Get Breast Cancer Screening in Morocco?

Depending on your needs, several healthcare professionals can help you access breast cancer screening and follow-up care in Morocco:

• Gynecologist: Clinical breast examination, mammography referral and follow-up → Docdialy gynecologists

• Radiologist: Mammography and breast ultrasound → Docdialy radiologists

• General practitioner: Initial assessment and referral → Docdialy general practitioners

• Oncologist: Management and follow-up when cancer has been confirmed → Docdialy oncologists

If you live abroad and are returning to Morocco during the summer or for the holidays, it can be a good opportunity to plan your medical follow-up. You can book your appointment online before you arrive.

Conclusion

Breast cancer screening saves lives.

In Morocco, screening is available through the national healthcare system, with free clinical breast examinations offered to eligible women through public health centers. The national program primarily targets women aged 45 to 69, while individual screening recommendations may vary depending on age, family history and personal risk factors.

Do not postpone an appointment because you feel healthy or have no symptoms. Breast cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, and early detection can make a significant difference in treatment and outcomes.

If you have a new lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, changes in the shape or size of your breast, or any other unusual symptom, consult a healthcare professional rather than waiting for your next screening appointment.

Book an appointment with a gynecologist or radiologist on Docdialy for your breast cancer screening.

→ Find a gynecologist in Morocco on Docdialy