Association between pancreatic cancer and diabetes: insights from a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Studies investigating the prevalence of pancreatic cancer have revealed a heightened risk of 1.5 to 2.0 times among individuals with long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus. AIMS: We aimed to estimate the prevalence of diabetes among patients with pancreatic cancer, and identify the factors associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in this population. METHODS: This retrospective observational and analytical study was carried out in the Department of Gastroenterology of the Mohammed VI University Hospital over a period of 5 years, between 2018 and 2022, including all patients with confirmed cases of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. RESULTS: Out of the 197 patients, 38.1% had a history of diabetes, among them, 42.7% had new-onset diabetes, while the remaining 57.3% had long-standing diabetes. Diabetic patients were significantly older than nondiabetic patients (mean age of 67.2 vs. 63, P = 0.009). Diabetes was more prevalent among obese patients (66.7%, P = 0.01), and less frequent among individuals with chronic alcohol consumption (20% vs. 80%, P = 0.04), and tobacco smokers (24.4% vs75.6%, P = 0.03). Among patients with an ECOG score ≥ 3, DM, 54.5% were DM-patients (P = 0.033). The same significant association was found for the Nutritional Risk Index, Patients who had moderate or severe malnutrition were more likely to be diabetic 74.7% (P = 0.004). Diabetic patients were less likely to undergo surgery due to comorbidities and general health deterioration. However, no significant differences were observed in sex, tumor stage or location. CONCLUSION: Our study has shown an increased prevalence of diabetes in pancreatic cancer and highlights the importance of considering this cancer in cases of recent onset or uncontrolled diabetes, especially in elderly individuals.

End-stage kidney disease patients with severe coronavirus disease: clinical characteristics, biological data, and mortality in nephrology unit, short communication.

Patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are particularly vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and their risk of death is higher than for the general population. The objective was to determine the epidemiologic profile at admission and mortality among patients presenting EKSD with severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Nephrology unit between October 2020 and February 2022. Were included all adult patients who presented ESKD on dialysis, or not on dialysis with an estimated glomerular filtration rate less than or equal to 15 ml/min/1.73 m2 and presenting a confirmed COVID-19. Patients with ESKD who were immediately admitted to the ICU were excluded. Results: Sixty-five patients' data were collected. The mean age was 58.9 ±16.7 years and 60% were males. Hypertension arterial and diabetes observed in 75% and 56.3% of cases, respectively. 52.3% were on haemodialysis, 4.6% were on peritoneal dialysis and 43.1% not were on dialysis. 94% of the patients were symptomatic of COVID-19, dominated by dyspnoea (87.5%), cough (65.6%), and fever (58.5%). More than half of patients (58.5%) showed signs of gravity and 62% required oxygen therapy. According to thoracic scan, 72.3% were classified COVID-19 Raw Data System 5 and 6. Most patients had severe anaemia (58.5%), lymphopenia (81.3%), and high levels of C-reactive protein (54%), D-Dimer (93.6%) and ferritin (91.2%). 38.5% of patients presented complications of whom 60% were transferred to ICU. Mortality was observed in 8% of cases. Conclusion: Rigorous monitoring is necessary for patients in ESKD, particularly those with comorbidities, to reduce the risk of severe form of COVID-19.

Prevalence and Specific Manifestations of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Association in a Moroccan Population: A Cross-sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is recognized as a common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Its association with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is known to increase the risk of degenerative complications of diabetes and the likelihood of developing severe hepatic injuries. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of NAFLD and to describe the characteristics of its association with T2DM. METHODS: This was a descriptive analytical study, involving patients with T2DM with no history of alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, hepatotoxic medications, or other chronic liver diseases. The patients underwent an investigation of NAFLD including abdominal ultrasound, non-invasive biomarkers of liver fibrosis, elastography and ultrasound-guided liver biopsy. RESULTS: We collected data from 180 patients with a mean age of 59.3 ± 10.9 years with strong female predominance. The mean duration of diabetes progression was 9.2 ± 7.3 years. Hepatic sonography showed signs of NAFLD in 45.6% of cases. Non-invasive hepatic biomarkers indicated significant fibrosis in 18.3% of cases. Overall, 21% of patients underwent an elastography evaluation, revealing severe fibrosis or cirrhosis in 15.4% of patients. The diagnosis of NASH (Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) was confirmed histologically in 3 patients. The overall prevalence of NAFLD was 45.6%. Patients with NAFLD had a statistically significant incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, dyslipidemia, macrovascular complications, and hypertriglyceridemia (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of NAFLD and T2DM is often found in patients with obesity or metabolic syndrome. The presence of NAFLD can be responsible for increased morbidity and important cardiovascular risks in patients with T2DM.

Diabetes as a predictive factor for severe form and high mortality risk of COVID-19: Retrospective cohort study of 188 cases.

INTRODUCTION: Since the appearance of the first case of the SARS CoV 2 infection, several studies have been conducted to identify the predictive factors of mortality in patients with COVID-19. According to previous reports, diabetes seems to be associated with severe clinical forms of the new coronavirus (SARS CoV 2).Our study aimed to identify the epidemiological, clinical, radiological and prognostic profile of diabetic patients with COVID-19. METHODS: This retrospective study included diabetic patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and admitted to the Resuscitation Department of our university hospital center From Mars 1st 2020, to December 31st, 2020. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: In this study, we collected the data of 600 patients admitted to the Anesthesia and Resuscitation Department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital of Oujda, a group of 188 (31.3%) had diabetes.The median age of our patients was 67 [25-75]. Were noted in the majority, of patients 69.6% with diabetes have developed a severe or critical injuries in the Chest CT Scan. Furthermore, we found that the mortality rate in this category of patients was higher 65/188 (34.60%) compared to non-diabetic patients, 130/412 (31.60%) (34.60%vs 31.60%; p: 0.464). CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this retrospective study, we concluded that diabetes is predictive factor for the need of an intensive care as well as a high risk of mortality related to COVID-19.Practically speaking, diabetic patients should be monitored more closely and need an aggressive preventive management protocols in order to prevent severe forms of the disease and a drastic evolution.More research is direly needed to identify patients of a higher risk of developing severe forms of COVID-19.

Therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in intensive care unit: Cases series.

INTRODUCTION: COVID 19 pneumonia can lead to an inappropriate inflammatory response, and can be complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome, multivisceral failure with a high mortality rate. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of therapeutic plasma exchange on the excessive inflammatory response. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we included 7 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the intensive care unit (ICU) department of the university hospital of Oujda. COVID-19 cases were confirmed by RT PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain) and CT (computerized tomography) imaging according to WHO guidelines. Therapeutic plasma exchange was performed decrease cytokine storm-induced ARDS (Acute respiratory distress syndrome). Inflammation marker assays were performed before and after therapeutic plasma exchange to assess its efficacy. RESULTS: Levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6) and acute phase response proteins, including ferritin and CRP, were elevated before therapeutic plasma exchange.After therapeutic plasma exchange, levels of acute phase reactants, inflammatory mediators, were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that therapeutic plasma exchange reduces the inflammatory response in patients with severe COVID-19 not undergoing mechanical ventilation. Further studies are needed to explore the efficacy of therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with COVID-19.

Dexamethasone or methylprednisolone therapy in covid-19 pneumonia: A retrospective and comparative study of 513 cases.

BACKGROUNDS: Corona virus disease 19 (Covid-19) affects especially the respiratory tract, and induces lung injury which may progress to the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Various treatment options were tried all over the world, corticosteroids had showed beneficial effects.The Objective of this study, is to compare the safety and efficiency of two corticosteroids: dexamethasone and prednisolone in the treatment of Covid-19 infection. METHODS: This retrospective and comparative study included 513 patients diagnosed with Covid-19 infection and were admitted to intensive care unit of our university hospital center of MOHAMMED VI Oujda from March 1, 2020, to December 31st, 2020. RESULTS: In this study, 513 cases were included, 230 patients were received methylprednisolone, and 283 were treated with dexamethasone. The median age in methylprednisolone group was 64 years, and 63 years in the second group treated with dexamethasone. Patients treated with dexamethasone had more critically lesions compared to patients treated with methylprednisolone (67.6%), these patients had a good evolution with a significant reduction of oxygen supplementation, lower use of invasive ventilation and a significant improvement in biological parameters. The difference in outcome between the two groups in terms of mortality was significantly reduced in the second group. CONCLUSION: Both steroids are efficient in the management of mild, moderate and severe Covid-19 pneumonia with a clear superiority of dexamethasone especially in severe forms.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios as predictors of outcomes in inflammatory breast cancer.

Background: Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is uncommon, aggressive and associated with poor survival outcomes. The lack of prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets specific to IBC is an added challenge for clinical practice and research. Inflammatory biomarkers such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios (NLR and PLR) demonstrated independent prognostic impact for survival in breast cancer. In our study, these biomarkers were investigated in a cohort of patients with nonmetastatic IBC. Methods: A retrospective cohort of 102 IBC patients with nonmetastatic disease was conducted at the Mohammed VI University Hospital (Oujda, Morocco) between January 2010 and December 2014. NLR and PLR were obtained from blood cell count at baseline before neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) from patients' medical records. The receiver operating characteristic was used to find the optimal cut-off. Correlation between these blood-based biomarkers and response to NACT was analyzed by Chi-squared and Fisher's exact test. Their prognostic value for predicting disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) was performed based on Cox regression models. Results: Totally, 102 patients with IBC were included in the analysis. Pathologic complete response (pCR) after NACT, defined by the absence of an invasive tumor in the breast tissues and nodes after surgery (ypT0 ypN0), was observed in eight patients (7.8%). NACT response was found to be associated with menopausal status (p = 0.039) and nodal status (p < 0.001). Patients with a low NLR had a higher pCR rate as compared with the high-NLR group (p = 0.043). However, the pCR rate was not significantly associated with age (p = 0.122), tumor side (p = 0.403), BMI (p = 0.615), histological grade (p = 0.059), hormone receptors status (p = 0.206), HER2 (p = 0.491) and PLR (p = 0.096). Pre-treatment blood-based NLR of 2.28 was used as the cut-off value to discriminate between high and low NLR according to the receiver operating characteristic curves. Similarly, a value of 178 was used as the cut off for PLR. Patients with low-NLR had a significantly better 5-year DFS (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001) than the high-NLR group. Moreover, low-PLR was significantly associated with higher DFS (p = 0.001) and OS (p = 0.003). The NLR showed a significant prognostic impact for DFS (HR: 2.57; 95% CI: 1.43-4.61; p = 0.01) and for OS (HR: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.70-5.02; p < 0.001). Similarly, a meaningful association between PLR and 5-year DFS (HR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.10-3.46; p = 0.021) and OS (HR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.06-3.14; p = 0.03) was noticed. Conclusions: High NLR and PLR were found associated with reduced DFS and OS in nonmetastatic IBC. Further studies are awaited to confirm these findings.

Benefits of Tocilizumab in patients with a severe form of SARS-CoV-2 infection: Experience of the intensive care unit of the Mohammed VI university hospital, Oujda.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is a new disease that appeared in December 2019. Millions of people have been infected and died from this infection. Until today, the pathophysiology and treatment of this infection remain unknown, but a lot of studies are trying to solve the mystery. The trail of inflammation remains the most convincing, especially the Interleukin 6 (IL-6) which could play an important role in a reaction cascade leading to a cytokine storm. According to studies, although few in number, the Tociluzimab (TCZ), which is an anti-IL6, could prevent or even suppress this storm, leading to a less severe clinical state of the disease and a faster recovery. This could decrease the use of oxygen, avoid the risk of intubation and mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-center retrospective observational case review brought together 557 COVID-19 seriously ill patients (pulmonary involvement> 25% + SatO2AA <90%) admitted to the intensive care unit of our university hospital from March 1st, 2020 to February 28th, 2021. They were divided into 2 groups a Tociluzimab group (TCZ group) and a Non Tociluzimab group (NON TCZ) to facilitate the comparison. The aim of the study was to compare the length of hospital stay, the use of mechanical ventilation and the mortality in the TCZ group versus the NON TCZ group. RESULTS: The average age of our patients was 62,05 years (±13.51) and 62.61 years (±16.33) respectively in the TCZ versus NON TCZ group. 76 (76%) were men while 24 were women (24%) in the TCZ group; and there was 313 (68.49%) men and 144 (31.51%) women in the NON TCZ group. Their average BMI was 28 kg/m2 (±4.52) in the TCZ group versus 27.89 kg/m2 (±4.73) in the NON TCZ group. Among them, the TCZ group included 38 (38%) diabetic patients, 38 hypertensive (38%), 12 heart disease (12%) and 2 chronic renal failure (2%), while the NON TCZ group regrouped 35 (7.65%) diabetics, 33 (7.22%) hypertensive, 12 heart disease (2.67%), and 5 chronic renal failure (1.09%) patients. The mean time to consultation of patients was almost similar in the two groups: 8.86 (±7,28) days for TCZ and 8.83 (±7,03) days for NON TCZ group. The mean length of ICU hospital stay was 9 days (4,94) for the TCZ group and 8,75 days (4,73) for the other one. The saturation at admission was at 74.92% (10.45) for the TCZ group ranging from 40% to 92%, and at 73,56% for the NON TCZ group. Lung damage from COVID-19 was extensive in 12%, severe in 32%, and critical in 56% of TCZ group enrolled cases. Meanwhile it was extensive in 23.63%, severe in 41,35%, and critical in 35,01% of the NON TCZ group. The biological findings found average of white blood cells at 12256/12082 e/mm3, lymphocytes at 761/842 e/mm3, CRP at 181/199 mg/L, ferritin at 1747/528 µg/L, and fibrinogen at 6.92/6.27 g/L for the TCZ group versus NON TCZ group. Medical care was based on isolation, oxygenotherapy, azithromycin, vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, salicylic acid, dexamethasone followed with methylprednisolone, and anticoagulation for all hospitalized patients. The TCZ group received at least 1 course of Tociluzimab dosed at 400 mg (2 patients received 2 doses and 1 patient received 3 doses). The indication of a Tociluzimab course in our department was based on a set of arguments: an increase in oxygen requirements, a progression of lesions on chest-computed tomography and an increase in inflammation markers including IL-6, CRP, ferritin, fibrinogen, and a decrease in the percentage of lymphocytes. The invasive mechanical ventilation was indicated for 4 (4%) patients in the TCZ group versus 192 (42,01%) in the NON TCZ. Among the 100 patients included in our cohort in the TCZ group, 40% died in intensive care unit and 60% had a favorable evolution with a decrease of the biological markers of inflammation. However, in the NON TCZ group, 197 (43,10%) passed away. CONCLUSION: The use of Tociluzimab in ICU patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia did not contribute to a significant difference in the reduction of hospital stay. However, the invasive mechanical ventilation was less needed in patients receiving Tociluzimab than the others. Moreover, there was a mortality benefit associated with the use of Tociluzimab, but only before 10 days of hospitalization.

Consumption of meat, traditional and modern processed meat and colorectal cancer risk among the Moroccan population: A large-scale case-control study.

The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between red and white meat subtypes, processed meat (divided into traditional "Khlii, Kaddid" and industrially processed meat) and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, considering CRC subsites, in Moroccan adults. A case-control study was conducted including 2,906 matched case-control pairs recruited from the five largest university hospitals in Morocco. Dietary data were collected through a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Multivariable odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), for the association of CRC risk with meat consumption (high vs. low intake), were estimated using conditional logistic regression models, adjusted for relevant confounding variables. Overall, consumption of red meat was positively associated with colon cancer and CRC risk (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.05-1.44; OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.02-1.27), respectively. In contrast, no significant association was observed between the consumption of red meat and rectal cancer risk (OR = 1.05, 95% = 0.90-1.23). Interestingly, while processed meat from industrial processes was positively associated with colon cancer, rectal cancer and CRC (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.27-2.04; OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.34-2.23; OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.41-1.98), processed meat prepared using traditional methods was inversely associated with colon cancer and CRC risk (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.57-0.98; OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.64-0.93), respectively. Furthermore, positive associations were observed between poultry intake and colon cancer risk among men (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.01-1.59). Our study showed similar associations between the consumption of red meat and CRC risk in Morocco as in developed countries, while inverse associations were found for traditionally processed meat products. This is the first study to investigate the differential effects of traditional vs. westernized processed meat products in a developing country. Other studies are needed to confirm these findings and to understand the physiological pathways underlying these associations.

Concordance with the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research recommendations for cancer prevention and colorectal cancer risk in Morocco: A large, population-based case-control study.

The present study aimed to investigate associations between adherence to the recommendations on cancer prevention from the WCRF/AICR and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in Morocco. Incident CRC cases (n = 1,516) and controls (n = 1,516) matched on age, sex and center, were recruited between September 2009 and February 2017 at five major hospitals located in Morocco. In-person interviews were conducted to assess habitual diet using a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire, physical activity and anthropometric measurements. Adherence to the WCRF/AIRC Recommendations was ranged from 0 (no adherence) to 6 (maximal adherence) and incorporating six WCRF/AICR components (food groups, physical activity and BMI). Multivariable odd ratios (ORA ) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using conditional multivariate logistic regression models, with low adherence as referent, adjusting for potential confounding factors. Compared to those with the lowest adherence score, individuals in the highest WCRF/AICR score category had a statistically significant reduced risk for colon cancer (ORA = 0.63, 95% CI 0.53-0.76); rectal cancer (ORA = 0.52, 95% CI 0.43-0.63) and CRC overall (ORA = 0.58, 95% CI 0.51-0.66). For individual score components, when comparing the lowest with the highest adherence category, CRC risk was significantly lower in the highest adherence category for body fatness (ORA = 0.73; 95% CI 0.62-0.85), physical activity (ORA = 0.70; 95% CI 0.60-0.82), plant foods (ORA = 0.50; 95% CI 0.39-0.63) and red/processed meat (ORA = 0.81; 95% CI 0.71-0.92). Our analysis indicated that greater adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations for cancer prevention may lower CRC risk in Morocco.

[Lung cancer in Eastern Morocco: where do we stand?] / Cancer du poumon au Maroc Oriental: où en sommes-nous?

INTRODUCTION: Lung cancer is the most common cancer in men living Eastern Morocco. We here present the first report on the clinical, pathological and therapeutic features of lung cancer in Eastern Morocco. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of 738 patients diagnosed with lung cancer at the Hassan II, Oncology Center between October 2005 and December 2014. RESULTS: Among the cases studied, 671 patients were men and 67 women; 95.01% of men and 1.54% of women were smokers. The average age of patients was 59.1 ± 11.9 years. Most patients (97%) were diagnosed at advanced stage disease. Only 4 out of 227 patients with advanced adenocarcinoma underwent molecular test. In addition, no patient in our series received targeted therapy. In this series, 20.46% of patients had less than 50 years. Compared to patients aged 50 years and older, cannabis consumption was higher (p<0.001) in patients less than 50 years and as well as a higher rate of adenocarcinoma (p<0.01). By contrast, in these patients, tobacco consumption was lower (p<0.001) as well as the rate of squamous cell carcinoma (p<0.01) and small cell cancer (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Unlike Western countries, in Eastern Morocco lung cancer is diagnosed late, affects younger people and access to molecular tests is still very limited. These results justify the need to implement effective programs against lung cancer as well as to facilitate access to molecular tests and new therapeutic tools in Eastern Morocco.

Overweight: Is It a Prognostic Factor in Women with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer?

Background: Obesity is associated with poor outcomes in patients with breast cancer expressing hormone receptors, but this association is not well established for triple-negative breast cancer. In this study, we investigated the influence of body mass index (BMI) in triple-negative breast cancer outcomes. Methods: This is a descriptive and analytical retrospective cohort study at the Regional Oncology Center Hassan II-Oujda. We identified 115 patients with triple-negative breast cancer, met the criteria for inclusion, treated between January 2009 and December 2011. The clinicopathological characteristics were collected to assess the association between BMI and overall survival and disease-free survival at 5 years, using the Kaplan-Meier and Cox model. Results: Data analysis focused on 115 patients, 34 patients (28.7%) were normal weight (BMI < 25) and 82 patients (71.3%) were overweight (BMI ≥ 25). The rates of overall mortality and progression at 5 years were 37.4% and 69.6% respectively. After adjusting for clinicopathological variables and menopausal status, overweight was associated with OS (HR: 2.903, 95% CI: 1.551- 5.432, p = 0.001) and DFS (HR:1.899, 95% IC: 1.05 ­ 3.433, p=0.034) in all patients with triple-negative breast cancer. When stratified by menopausal status, overweight was associated with DFS and OS (HR : 3.242, 95% CI: 1.249 to 8.412, p = 0.016) and (HR : 2.752, 95% CI: 1.267 to 5.978, p = 0.011) respectively in pre-menopausal women. By cons, BMI was not associated with DFS or OS in postmenopausal women. Conclusions: Overweight is an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS at 5 years in all patients with triple-negative breast cancer, and menopausal status may be a mitigating factor. Premenopausal women with overweight are at greater risk of death and progression than women with normal weight. Once validated, these results should be considered in the development of prevention programs.

Factors Associated with Delayed Diagnosis of Lymphomas: Experience with Patients from Hematology Centers in Morocco

Background: Moroccan cancer patients usually have to go through several steps before they are diagnosed. It is important to assess factors associated with diagnosis delay for lymphomas, which might have significant effects on survival. The aim of this study was to determine factors leading to late diagnosis of lymphomas. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with three hematology centers in Morocco in 2008, to analyze the impact of sociodemographic and clinical factors on delay-time from symptoms to diagnosis. Results: A total of 151 patients were included in the study. Late delay was significantly associated with gender, (for men compared to women: OR=2.46; 95% CI: 1.06-5.74), to marital status (not married: OR=2.50; 95% CI: 1.06-5.92) and low socioeconomic level (OR=5.82; 95% CI: 2.23-15.17). Late medical delay was significantly associated with having three or more medical visits before diagnosis (Adjusted OR=5.67; 95% CI: 2.55-12.59). Late total delay was observed for patients with three children or less (adjusted OR=4.39; 95% CI: 1.32-14.56), those who were non-married (adjusted OR=2.49; 95% CI: 1.07-5.81), had a non Hodgkin's lymphoma (Adjusted OR=2.08; 95% CI: 1.06-4.00) or featuring three or more medical visits before the diagnosis (Adjusted OR=2.13; 95% CI: 0.99-5.88). Conclusion: This analysis provides a basis for understanding the sources, extent, and root causes of lymphoma diagnostic delays. The findings appear crucial for system-wide interventions aimed to facilitate clinical management of patients with lymphoma and to improve prognosis and quality of life.

HPV and cofactors for invasive cervical cancer in Morocco: a multicentre case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Limited national information is available in Morocco on the prevalence and distribution of HPV-sub-types of cervical cancer and the role of other risk factors. The aim was to determine the frequency of HPV-sub-types of cervical cancer in Morocco and investigate risk factors for this disease. METHODS: Between November 2009 and April 2012 a multicentre case-control study was carried out. A total of 144 cases of cervical cancer and 288 age-matched controls were included. Odds-ratios and corresponding confidence-intervals were computed by conditional logistic regression models. RESULTS: Current HPV infection was detected in 92.5% of cases and 13.9% of controls. HPV16 was the most common type for both cases and controls. Very strong associations between HPV-sub-types and cervical cancer were observed: total-HPV (OR = 39), HPV16 (OR = 49), HPV18 (OR = 31), and multiple infections (OR = 13). Education, high parity, sexual intercourse during menstruation, history of sexually transmitted infections, and husband's multiple sexual partners were also significantly associated with cervical cancer in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Our results could be used to establish a primary prevention program and to prioritize limited screening to women who have specific characteristics that may put them at an increased risk of cervical cancer.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Practice Towards Breast Cancer among General Practitioner Health Professionals in Morocco

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer of women in Morocco and its diagnosis is usually made at advanced stages. The aim of this study was to describe the knowledge, practices and attitudes of general practitioners regarding early detection of breast cancer. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out during July 2011 on a sample of 140 general practitioners employed in basic health care facilities. Results: The majority (85.7%) of general practitioners were aware of the existence of a ministerial circular which aimed to generalize breast cancer screening. Systematic practice of clinical breast examination was reported by 18.0% of doctors for every woman between 45 and 70 years and a systematic breast self-examination check-up was reported by 59.4% of physicians. Mammography was requested by 54.1% of physicians in the presence of risk factors. Females and physicians practicing in urban areas were less likely to have a knowledge, attitudes and practices score higher than 8 as compared to male physicians and those practicing in rural areas. Discussion and conclusion: Our study showed that the knowledge, attitudes and practices of general practitioners regarding the early detection of breast cancer program were not satisfactory; hence the urgent need for improved implementation of the program in the affected regions.

Correction: Exploring Geographic Variability in Cancer Prevalence in Eastern Morocco: a Retrospective Study over Eight Years.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151987.].

Exploring Geographic Variability in Cancer Prevalence in Eastern Morocco: A Retrospective Study over Eight Years.

BACKGROUND: Malignant diseases have been believed to be more common in some areas of Eastern Morocco, but until now, cancer patterns have not been reported for this region. In this paper we present for the first time the cancer prevalence analysis in Eastern Morocco. METHODS: Cross-sectional study carried out among all patients diagnosed and/or treated with cancer at the Hassan II Regional Oncology Center (ROC) since it was established in October 2005 until December 2012. The ROC is the only hospital specialized in cancer care in Eastern Morocco. RESULTS: A total of 8,508 cases of cancer were registered among residents in Eastern Morocco, with a female to male ratio of 2.1. The mean age at diagnosis was 53.9 ± 15.2 years (median age = 53 years). Thus, unlike in Western countries, cancer in Eastern Morocco afflicts younger population. The areas of Eastern Morocco did not differ significantly by mean age at diagnosis (p = 0.061). However, these regions differed significantly by sex ratio (p < 0.001). The highest sex ratio was observed in Figuig, with a female to male ratio of 3.1 (75.4% of the registered case were females), followed respectively by Taourirt, Oujda-Angad, Berkane, Nador-Driouch and Jerada. Clear variation in the distribution of cancer types between areas of Eastern Morocco was observed, both in males and females (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the areas of Eastern Morocco differed significantly by cancer prevalence (p < 0.001). The highest age-standardized five-year prevalence proportion was observed in Oujda-Angad with 420.2 per 100,000, followed respectively by Berkane (311.4), Jerada (287.8), Taourirt (269.3), Nador-Driouch (213.6) and Figuig (194.4). Trends in the five-year prevalence proportions decreased in Oujda-Angad, Berkane and Jerada throughout the study period, while an increasing trend was observed in Nador-Driouch, Taourirt and Figuig. CONCLUSIONS: For the first time, our study presents the pattern and distribution of diagnosed cancers in Eastern Morocco. Our study illustrates substantial differences in cancer patterns between areas of Eastern Morocco. These findings are important for cancer control and highlight the need to develop program aiming at controlling and preventing the spread of major cancer sites in Eastern Morocco, particularly in areas with increased cancer prevalence rates.

Translation and validation of European organization for research and treatment of cancer quality of life Questionnaire -C30 into Moroccan version for cancer patients in Morocco.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the effects of cancer on the quality of life of affected patients is critical to clinical research as well as to optimal management and care. The aim of this study was to adapt the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) questionnaire into Moroccan Arabic and to determine its psychometric properties. After translation, back translation and pretesting of the pre-final version, the translated version was submitted to a committee of professionals composed by oncologists and epidemiologists. The psychometric properties were tested in patients with cancer. Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach's alpha and the test-retest reliability using interclass correlation coefficients. Construct validity was assessed by examining item-convergent and divergent validity. It was also tested using Spearman's correlation between QLQ-C30 scales and EQ-5D. RESULTS: The study was conducted in 125 patients. The Moroccan version was internally reliable, Cronbach's α was 0.87 for the total scale and ranged from 0.34 to 0.97 for the subscales. The intraclass correlation coefficient of the test-retest reliability ranged from 0.64 for "social functioning" to 0.89 for "physical activities" subscales. The instrument demonstrated a good construct and concomitant validity. CONCLUSIONS: We have developed a semantically equivalent translation with cultural adaptation of EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. The assessment of its measurement properties showed that it is quite reliable and a valid measure of the effect of cancer on the quality of life in Moroccan patients.

The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life questionnaire-BR23 Breast Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire: psychometric properties in a Moroccan sample of breast cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Quality of life (QOL) and its measurement in cancer patients is becoming increasingly important. Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are often associated with psychological distress and reduced QoL. In Arabic-speaking countries, QoL of patients with cancer is inadequately studied.The aim of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Moroccan Arabic version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Breast Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-BR23). METHODS: After translation and cross-cultural adaptation, the questionnaire was tested on breast cancer patients. The participants' number for the test and the retest were 105 and 37 respectively. Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α), the test-retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Construct validity was assessed by examining item-convergent and divergent validity. RESULTS: The questionnaire was administered to 105 patients. The mean age of patients was 48 years (SD: 16), 62.9% were married. 68.6% of all participants lived in urban area.The average time to complete the QLQ- BR23 was 15 min. Cronbach's alpha coefficient, were all >0.7, with the exception of breast symptoms and arm symptoms. All items exceeded the 0.4 criterion for convergent validity except item 20 and 23 related to pain and skin problems in the affected breast respectively. CONCLUSION: In general, the findings of this study indicated that the Moroccan Arabic version of the EORTC QLQ-BR23 is a reliable and valid supplementary measure of the QOL in breast cancer patients and can be used in clinical trials and studies of outcome research in oncology.

[HPV and cervical cancer: knowledge and practices of physicians in Fez]. / Connaissances et pratiques des médecins vis-à-vis du cancer du col de l'utérus et de l'infection HPV à Fès.

INTRODUCTION: The main objective of this paper is to assess the knowledge and practices of primary care physicians related to cervical cancer and HPV infection. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2010 among general practitioners in all health centers in the Wilaya of Fez, Morocco. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. RESULTS: The response rate was 77.7%. Only 25.6% of the physicians reported that they knew how to perform pap smears, while just 7.9% (all women) actually perform Pap smears. The main reasons for not performing Pap smears were lack of training (69.0%) and lack of resources (24.0%). 89.0% of the participants stated that a family history of cervical cancer is a risk factor for cervical cancer, while all the physicians reported that sexually transmitted diseases and having multiple sexual partners are risk factors. 94.9% stated that early age at first sexual intercourse is a risk factor, while 97.4% stated that genital warts are a risk factor. 76.4% stated that they were aware of the existence of the HPV vaccine. CONCLUSION: The results show that physicians have limited knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer and that their participation in cervical cancer screening and diagnosis is also relatively low. We conclude that there is a need for training and increased awareness.