Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: To provide an update overview of Algeria's healthcare system, emphasizing progress, access challenges, infrastructure effectiveness and financial pressures, while addressing system limitations based on recent pathology data.
METHODS: A descriptive analysis of pathology prevalence in Algeria using reliable data and open-access sources, such as the WHO database to assess disease burden and key health challenges.
RESULTS: In 2024, Algeria's population reached approximately 46.7 million, with a nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimated at $266.78 billion. The birth rate was recorded at 19.32 births per 1,000 inhabitants in 2023, while the mortality rate in 2022 stood at 63.71 per 1,000 women and 91.6 per 1,000 men. Infant mortality declined to 18.7 per 1,000 live births, the lowest rate to date. Life expectancy rose to 76 years in 2021, exceeding Africa's average of 63.6 years. Cancer remains a major health challenge, with 51,094 new cases in 2022, predominantly breast and colorectal cancers in women, and colorectal and lung cancers in men. Pediatric cancer cases totaled 793. By early 2024, the number of cancer centers increased to 21, with the objective to reach 25 by 2025. Recently, Algeria announced a list of 110 rare disease underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing access to innovative therapies. The number of hemophilia cases reached 3,600, followed up in 42 specialized centers, a key milestone in the improvement of care pathways. While HIV affected 28,000 adults and 1,300 children, with 63% on treatment. Higher prevalence is seen in vulnerable groups, including sex workers (7.21%) and drug users (2.2%).
CONCLUSIONS: Despite progress, Algeria's healthcare system faces challenges, including disparities in access, a rising burden of chronic and rare diseases, and the need for better support for vulnerable populations.