Science, Technology & Environment

Cancer Information Fair institutionalized in 2021

ALGIERS- Minister of Health, Population and Hospital Reform Abderrahmane Benbouzid announced Tuesday in Algiers that the Cancer Information Fair (SICAN) will be institutionalized, as of 2021, by law.

In an address at the opening of the 5th SICAN, Benbouzid said that the "formalization" of the fair as of 2021 "will allow inform citizens about the means of screening and treatment of the different types of cancer ".

The fair will also provide data about the epidemiological profiles of cancer in Algeria and the risk factors, based on the results of the national network of cancer registries.

The dissemination of information and awareness-raising on the different types of this disease and the importance of prevention and health protection, in association with all actors including civil society within the framework of a community approach, are also among the objectives of this event.

The vigilance imposed by the novel Coronavirus pandemic since the start of the year has caused the postponement of the celebration of World Cancer Day (February 4) to coincide with World Health Day , celebrated on April 7, said the minister.

The SICAN constitutes a crossroads for public health professionals amid the spread of Covid-19, Benbouzid said.