Population risk factors for late-stage presentation of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Using an IMR enables identification of factors predicting late-stage cervical cancer in SSA including: GDP, HIV infection, not using a condom, high parity and no formal education.

Factors associated with late presentation of cervical cancer cases at a district hospital: a retrospective study

“…The findings suggest that sociodemographic (no education) and clinical factors (absence of previous screening and age at menarche) influenced late presentation at the study site. Nearly two-thirds of patients with cervical cancer during the stated period reported with advanced stage disease, Similar results were found in studies conducted in Uganda, South India, Iran, Nepal, Tanzania [ 4 – 6 , 13 , 14 ] which make it evident that majority of women report with late stage disease, particularly in developing countries.…”

“…Other sociodemographic factors (age, marital status, educational level, NHIS, employment status, place of residence and distance) were not associated with late stage at presentation of cervical cancer cases. The influence of education was reported in similar studies conducted in Tanzania [ 5 ], Nepal [ 6 ] and Morocco [ 16 ]. This means that women who are educated will be more inclined to report early once they experience an unusual symptom.…”

“…The hospital is surrounded by rural communities, women who seek gynecological cancer care come from both rural and urban settings. Studies in the United States [ 15 ], Sudan [ 10 ] and Morocco [ 16 ] reported an association with rural urban residence, while studies in Uganda [ 4 ], and Nepal [ 6 ] did not report any association as in the present study. Being that the present study was conducted retrospectively, ascertaining average monthly income was not possible hence employment status was used as a proxy.…”

“…Another study conducted in Tanzania reported that 63.9% of its study participants presented late to the healthcare facility [ 5 ]. An ecological study investigated population-level exposure to risk factors in relation to late stage cervical cancer and found that gross domestic product, HIV infection, non-use of condoms, high parity and lack of formal education were significant predictors [ 6 ]. A recent study conducted in two regions in Ghana, also reported that late stage presentation was common [ 7 ].…”

Towards timely diagnosis of symptomatic breast and cervical cancer in South Africa

“…46% of breast cancer in South Africa (SA) is diagnosed at an advanced stage). [3][4][5][6][7] Cancer stage is a measure of cancer growth and spread, with stage at presentation being an important prognostic factor. Earlier stage at presentation, enabling more opportunities for curative treatment and improved outcomes, is therefore an important goal in any comprehensive cancer care policy.…”