Gastric Cancer Burden in Northern Nigeria: A Retrospective Study of 10-Years

Abstract

Gastric cancer is a major contributor to global cancer mortality. In Nigeria, especially in the North Central regions such as Makurdi, data on its prevalence and pathological features remain limited. To describe the demographic and histopathologic profile of gastric cancer cases diagnosed in Makurdi over 10 years and compare findings with national and global trends.  A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at Benue State University Teaching Hospital and Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, from January 2016 to December 2024. Histologically confirmed gastric cancer cases were analysed for age, sex, tumour subtype, and distribution within the spectrum of gastrointestinal cancers. Among 2,341 malignancies identified during the study period, 19 cases (0.81%) were gastric cancers, accounting for 12.3% of all gastrointestinal tumours (n=155). The peak incidence occurred in the 51–60-year age group (47%). Males were more commonly affected (68%). Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological subtype (74%), followed by poorly differentiated carcinoma (16%), signet ring cell carcinoma (5%), and gastrointestinal stromal tumour (5%). Gastric cancer was the third most common gastrointestinal malignancy after colorectal/anal cancers (83.2%). Gastric cancer in Makurdi remains relatively rare but clinically important, with a clear male preponderance and predominance of adenocarcinoma. The pattern reflects late-stage detection and aligns with regional and global observations. These findings underscore the need for early detection strategies and improved diagnostic infrastructure in North Central Nigeria.