Presentation of colorectal cancers in Benin-City, Nigeria

Background : Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer death worldwide, and the prevalence in Nigeria appears to be increasing due to a shift to western diets. We undertook a retrospective analysis of colorectal cancers seen at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City from January 1983 to December 2002. Methods : One hundred and two cases involving the large bowel were encountered. These were analysed for age, sex, site, histological type and clinical features. Results : The mean age was 44.5 +/-4.5 years. Males accounted for 56 (54.9%) cases, while 46(45.1%) were females. Seventy two (70.2%) of the tumours were located in the rectum. Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological type, with 89 (87.2%) cases. Fifty two (51%) cases presented with intestinal obstruction. Conclusions : Conclusion, colorectal cancers are not rare in our environment as previously believed, though, the frequency in Benin City is relatively low.