The pattern and distribution of cancers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The pattern of cancer is known to vary by location based on people's lifestyle and socioeconomic development status. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe the pattern of cancers seen in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study of all cancer cases that were histologically diagnosed in the Histopathology Department of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for 9 years (January 2007-December 2015). RESULTS: There were 1186 cases, identified and included in this study. Females accounted for 59.7% of cases while males accounted for 40.3% of cases, with the mean ages for females and males being 45.69 ± 14.38 and 59.63 ± 17.77 years, respectively. Age group 60-69 years accounted for most cases (20.4%). The common cancers in both sexes were breast (33%), prostate (25.8%), cervix (11.1%), skin (4.9%), sarcoma (4.8%), and colorectal (3.8%). CONCLUSION: There is a variation between the pattern of cancer in Akwa Ibom and other regions of Nigeria warranting further clinicopathological evaluation, and these results will be useful in the overall context of planning and evaluation of cancer control activities in Akwa Ibom State. A population-based cancer registration in Uyo is suggested.