Breaking New Ground in Cancer Care
On Saturday, September 26, Rabat made history by hosting an unprecedented gathering focused on supportive care for cancer patients, titled "Best of MASCC 2026." This significant event brought together healthcare professionals from Morocco and around the globe to exchange insights and highlight key scientific findings presented earlier this year in Melbourne.
The conference was organized by the Moroccan Association of Supportive Care in Cancer in collaboration with the Lalla Salma Foundation for Cancer Prevention and Treatment, along with the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer. Notably, this was the first event of its kind held on the African continent, marking a pivotal moment in the advancement of cancer care.
Insights and Discussions on Supportive Care
The discussions at the conference centered around the significant findings from the MASCC/ISOO international congress held in Australia in June. Experts meticulously selected the most impactful advancements in the field to share with professionals dedicated to cancer patient care. Among the topics addressed were disparities in access to supportive care and the essential actions required to elevate its recognition within the healthcare system.
Furthermore, the conference delved into the implications of new anticancer therapies, with specialists discussing critical issues such as cardiotoxicity, psychosocial interventions, tailored physical activity, and the support of caregivers. Dr. Rachid Bekkali opened the event with a presentation outlining the vision of the Lalla Salma Foundation regarding supportive care, while the MOASCC advocated for enhanced acknowledgment of these services as a fundamental component of cancer management in Morocco.
Dr. Mounir Bachouchi, president of the MOASCC, emphasized that advancements in treatment are gradually altering patients' needs. The focus has shifted from merely treating the disease to providing comprehensive support for those living longer with cancer and coping with the effects of therapies. Supportive care plays a vital role in maintaining treatment adherence, minimizing avoidable hospitalizations, and preserving patients' quality of life and autonomy.
The objective of this African edition of "Best of MASCC" was to bridge the gap between Moroccan and African professionals with the scientific data presented in Melbourne. Participants had the opportunity to compare available results with the realities of their institutions, aiming to distinguish between evidence-based practices, unresolved questions, and actionable measures that can be implemented given existing resources.
Through this inaugural event in Rabat, the conference successfully served as a meeting point for international expertise and local practices, focusing on patient-centered oncology care throughout the treatment journey.
As reported by lenouvelliste.ma.
