Colorectal and Anal Malignancies in Makurdi, North Central Nigeria: Insights from a 10-Year Registry Analysis

Abstract

Colorectal and anal cancers (CRACs) are increasingly reported in sub-Saharan Africa due to rising life expectancy, dietary shifts, and improved diagnostics. This study presents a 10-year review of CRACs in Makurdi, North Central Nigeria, analysing demographic, anatomical, and histological patterns. A retrospective review was conducted of histologically confirmed CRAC cases from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2024. Data on age, sex, anatomical site, and histological subtype were analysed using descriptive statistics. We had a total of 2341 cancers, 129 (5.5%) of which were CRACs. Males constituted 56.6% (M: F ratio 1.3:1), with a peak age incidence between 51–60 years (27%). Rectum (27%) and anus (17%) were the most common sites. Adenocarcinoma (64%) was the most prevalent histological type, followed by mucinous adenocarcinoma (16%). Notably, 19.4% of cases were recorded in patients under the age of 40. CRACs represent a burgeoning oncological issue in Makurdi, characterised by a rising incidence among younger patients and a prevalence of aggressive histological variants. Enhancing diagnostic infrastructure and implementing population-based screening programs are crucial to mitigate the increasing burden in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.