Informing populations to increase access to prevention in Morocco

Introduction

In Morocco, cervical cancer is a silent threat that demands urgent and continuous mobilisation of the community. If the vaccine is available for free in health facilities, demand remains very low due to the lack of information of the population. In order to address this lack of awareness of the population, which is a factor of inequity, the Association Dar Zhor positioned itself as a committed actor in raising awareness and reframing messages to eliminate this scourge affecting Moroccan women.

Background

Cervical cancer is on the rise in Morocco, with alarming incidence rates and increasing mortality. Faced with this situation, Dar Zhor has committed itself to informing the population about the HPV vaccine, a powerful weapon against this devastating cancer.

Actions

Starting from December 2021, Dar Zhor has regularly disseminated essential information about cervical cancer on social media platforms (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube). This campaign aims to educate the population about vaccinating girls aged nine to 15 and with regard to screening, in line with the national prevention plan. In February 2022, the association organised a webinar with the participation of three specialists, allowing listeners to ask questions and understand the importance of vaccination and early screening.

Dar Zhor also issued a call to action by raising awareness in the government, leading to a call from the Minister of Public Health for the launch of the national cervical cancer elimination campaign further to the national prevention plan. In September 2022, a directive was issued to several officials in the Ministry of Public Health to initiate preparations for the HPV vaccination campaign, which was integrated into the vaccination schedule in October 2022.

Results

The HPV vaccine was officially integrated into the vaccination schedule in October 2022, representing a significant advancement. However, the communication from the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) does not provide vaccination data publicly and the information concerning the number of girls vaccinated is not available. Furthermore, the earthquake in September 2023 is likely to alter priorities. More efforts by all stakeholders to keep informing the population and increase confidence in the vaccine is needed in Morocco.

Conclusion

The fight against cervical cancer in Morocco requires collective mobilisation. Dar Zhor has demonstrated that an NGO can play a central role in promoting HPV vaccination, influencing decision-makers, and mobilising healthcare professionals. This action is essential to eliminate this burden that affects the lives of so many Moroccan women. Continued awareness and action are crucial to achieving WHO's objectives. Dar Zhor is committed to playing a major role in this fight for a healthier future for all Moroccan women.