The Top Ten Cancer Burdens at Hawassa University's Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from 2013 to 2019

Abstract

Background: Cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, posing significant public health challenges across various demographics. This study evaluates the epidemiology of the ten most prevalent cancers at Hawassa University’s Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HURCSH) from 2013 to 2019.

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among all cancer patients treated at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH) between 2013 and 2019. A thorough review of medical records in both the oncology and pathology units was performed. Descriptive statistics and trend analyses were conducted using SPSS version 20, with results presented in tables and graphs.

Results: During the study period, a total of 4,658 new cancer cases were registered, with complete records available for 3,002 cases. The ten most common cancers accounted for 2,162 cases (72.1%). Breast cancer was the most prevalent, comprising 559 cases (25.9%), followed by cervical cancer with 385 cases (17.8%), gastric cancer with 257 cases (11.9%), esophageal cancer with 245 cases (11.3%), and colorectal cancer with 204 cases (9.4%). There was a notable predominance of cases among females, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.1. Many cancers peaked in individuals aged between 30 to 59 years. Alarmingly, there was a marked increase in cancer cases over the seven-year period, especially after 2016.

Conclusion: Burden of cancer is raising time to time, it is crucial to establish awareness, improve screening programs, and promote healthier lifestyle choices to mitigate the public health impact of cancer in Ethiopia. This study underscores the need for strengthened healthcare policies and resource allocation to effectively address the growing cancer burden.