Analysis of Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (Colonoscopy) among Patients Seeking Health Care Services at a Private Hospital in Western Kenya, (2020 to 2024)

Abstract

Background and Objective: This retrospective descriptive study evaluated diagnostic data from 5,544 patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy between March 2020 and March 2024 at a private hospital, Kisii County, Kenya. The study aimed at evaluating the use of procedures, patient profiles, clinical reasons, and diagnostic outcomes to inform practice and planning for healthcare and resources. Methods: Data extracted were patient age, gender, pre-medication, reasons for endoscopy, results, provisional diagnoses, and clinical impressions. Results: Results demonstrated a very strong predominance of EGD procedures (98.8%) over colonoscopy (1.2%), reflective of a very strong imbalance between access and utilization. Dysphagia was the most frequent clinical indication for EGD, in excess of 43% of cases, with malignancy and peptic ulcers representing a substantial disease burden. Referral indications were highly aligned with diagnostic results, reflective of the clinical importance of current referral patterns. The gender ratio was approximately equal, and the 41–80 years age category was found to be a priority group for interventions. Conclusion: The report recommends the enhancement of diagnostic capacity for dysphagia and oesophageal disease, optimization of upper GI bleeding and hematemesis protocols, encouragement of early intervention for functional dyspepsia and epigastralgia, and investment in oesophageal cancer services. Enhanced access and awareness of colonoscopy, standardization of documentation and data management, implementation of quality indicators, and regular training are needed to improve patient outcomes.