A Seven-Year Review of Cervical Cancer in a Tertiary Hospital in Makurdi, Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and the second most common female cancer in women. In Nigeria, it is the second most common cancer and most common cancer among the female population in the country. Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection of the cervix is implicated in its aetiology. Cervical cancer is preventable through early diagnosis using screening tests and vaccination.

Objective: To evaluate and establish the socio-demographic characteristics, clinical factors, prevalence and pattern of cervical cancer patients presenting at Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) Makurdi within the study period.

Materials and Methods: A seven-year retrospective study of cases of histologically diagnosed cervical cancer at BSUTH, Makurdi from 2012 to 2018 (both years inclusive) was undertaken.

Results: The prevalence of cervical cancer among gynecological malignancies was 57.5%. The mean age was 49.8 years ±14.6, with peak incidence occurring at age range of 35-44 years. The highest incidence was seen among those with parity 5 and above (53.2%). Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common (97.4%) reported histopathology pattern. Early-stage disease (stage I – IIa) comprised 18.2%, while 81.8% presented in advanced stage (stage IIb – IV). Most cases of histologically confirmed cancer were referred to centres with facilities for radiotherapy. However, early-stage diseases were treated at BSUTH.

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of cervical cancer in this study. Hence there is need for an efficient and organized cervical cancer screening program at national and sub-national levels for the prevention, early detection and treatment of the disease especially in the high-risk group.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Screening, Gynecological malignancies