Gynaecological Malignancies in Calabar, Nigeria: A Tertiary Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Background: Gynaecological malignancies are important cause of female mortality and morbidity worldwide. The distribution and frequency of these tumors vary from one region to the other. Aim: This study is aimed at determining the prevalence and pattern of gynecological malignancies in Calabar, Nigeria. Method: A descriptive study of the cancer of the female genital tract of 154 patients was undertaken using the histology register of Pathology Department, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria to retract gynecological malignancies for a period of 11 years. Results: Result showed that the most prevalent gynecological malignancies occurred in the uterine cervix accounting for 56% of all the gynecological malignancies seen within the specified duration studied with peak prevalence occurring at the fifth decade of life. The least prevalent was cancer of the vagina representing only 1.9% of cases evaluated. Conclusion:  The study revealed that prevalence of gynecological malignancies is high. There is therefore the need for increased awareness through outreaches, symposia, educational programs, health talks, etc., to enhance reduction of the menace drastically.