Cervical Cancer Among Women In Calabar, Nigeria: A Five Year Review

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the 3° most gynecological cancer woridwide with more than 85" of the global burden occurring in the developing countries. Certain risk factors have been implicated to increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. These include Human Papiloma virus (HPV) infection, co-infection of HPV with STIs, Multiple sexual partners, early initiation of sex before the age of 18 years and having an uncircumcised sexual
partner. 

Aims: We present a retrospective review of the pattern of cervical cancer among women in Calabar. 

Result: A total of 370 women were screened within the study period. Majority of the women were aged 40 to 49 years, 32.2%. Seventeen (4.6%) of women screened positive for cervical cancer. High grade squamous intraepithelaial lesion was the predominant (70.6%) histologic finding.

Conclusion: The incidence of cervical cancer is on the rise. Early detection may improve the quality of life in those affected. Increased awareness and effective screening programme are urgently needed to reduce the high mortality rate attributed from the arsease.