Jornal de Citologia e Histologia

Prevalence and Geographical Distribution of Precancerous Lesions of the Uterine Cervix in Cameroon

Abstract

Tebeu Pierre Marie, Zachari Sando, Alice Ndoumba, Isaac Sandjong, Paulette Mawech-Fauceglia and Anderson Sama Doh

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of cervical precancerous lesions in Cameroon.

Methods: A cross-sectional study for one year period has been conducted in 6 regions of Cameroon by the National Cancer control Committee and the Gynecologic and Pediatric Hospital in Yaoundé from 1/1/2009 to 12/30/2009.

Results: Women were diagnosed of precancerous cervical lesions (97/2485), making the national prevalence of 3.9%, with the highest rate located in Centre, Littoral and Far North regions. The age of the affected women was 27-55 years with 67% women between 34 and 49 years old. The majority of these women had at least four pregnancies (32 %).

Conclusion: The prevalence of precancerous lesions of the uterine cervix in Cameroon varies among regions depending on the existence of screening activities. Continuing effort in extending these programs in different regions will make a noticeable improvement in preventing cervical cancer.