The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held a breast cancer awareness day themed “Awareness Can Save Lives” at its headquarters in Rabat on Tuesday, 27 October 2026. The event included awareness activities and free screening services aimed at increasing knowledge of breast cancer and the importance of early detection, while highlighting the role of medical care and psychological and community support in confronting the disease.

The seminar, organized by ICESCO’s Human Capital Department, opened with remarks by Dr. Yousra Bint Hussain AlJazairy, Chair of the Cultural Committee of The Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations accredited to Morocco. She emphasized that raising awareness of the disease is a shared responsibility among institutions, families, and society. This requires providing reliable information and facilitating access to care, while respecting women’s privacy and their right to participate in decisions concerning their health. Moreover, Dr. AlJazairy underscored the importance of attentive listening and daily support in easing the burden of the disease and safeguarding women’s dignity throughout treatment.

Dr. Awatif Belakhel, Public Health and Disease Control Officer at the World Health Organization in Morocco, delivered a presentation titled “Together Against Cancer: The Scale of the Challenge and the Importance of Prevention.” She addressed risk factors, the importance of early detection, and healthy lifestyles, noting that breast cancer is often painless and stressing the need to consult a physician without delay upon noticing any unusual change.

The program also featured an awareness video produced by ICESCO’s Media and Communication Sector on the importance of early detection in combating breast cancer. It was followed by a medical discussion on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, bringing together specialists in oncology, radiotherapy, and psychological support.

The session featured Dr. Khadija Benchakroun, oncologist; Dr. Hanane El Kacemi, radiotherapist and oncologist; and Dr. Rachida Tayeb, radiotherapist, alongside psychologists Dr. Zineb Chahdi El Ouazani and Dr. Nezha El Bahaoui. Their contributions examined the importance of psychological support and its impact on strengthening women’s ability to cope with the disease.

Prior to the seminar, ICESCO, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Kingdom of Morocco, provided medical examinations to a number of female staff members for the early detection of breast cancer, combining awareness with practical health services.