Management of Gastric Cancer: A Decade of Experience at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
Bello Muhammed Bashir, Ibrahim Umar AbubakarAbstract
Background:
Gastric cancer represents a significant global health challenge, ranking as the fifth most common malignancy and third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. While traditionally considered rare in sub-Saharan Africa, emerging evidence suggests increasing incidence rates across the continent.
Objective:
To analyse the clinicopathological characteristics, management approaches and outcomes of gastric cancer patients at a tertiary healthcare facility in Northwestern Nigeria over 10 years.
Methodology:
This retrospective and cohort study reviewed the medical records of 110 histologically confirmed gastric cancer patients managed at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital from January 2014 to December 2023. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, histopathology, staging, treatment modalities and outcomes were analysed using the SPSS software version 22. Binary logistic regression identified the independent predictors of mortality.
Results:
The study included 110 patients (mean age 55 ± 14.65 years; 63% male). The majority (86%) presented with stage III disease, while 9% had stage IV and 5% had stage II disease. The gastric body and antrum were equally affected (40% each). Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological type (87%). The risk factors were unidentifiable in 40% of patients. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered to 68% of patients, while 42% received palliative chemotherapy. Surgical interventions included gastrectomy (21%), gastrojejunostomy (29%) and feeding jejunostomy (8%). The overall mortality rate was 50%, with hospital stay duration ranging from 3 to 120 days.
Conclusion:
Gastric cancer incidence appears to be rising in Northwestern Nigeria, with most patients presenting at advanced stages. The high mortality rate underscores the need for improved early detection strategies and comprehensive cancer care programs in the resource-limited settings.