An appraisal of pattern and presentation of gynaecological malignancies in Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Gynaecological malignancies are cancers that occur in or on a woman's reproductive organs and genitals which includes the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The prevalence of gynaecological malignancies varies from one country to another. The factors responsible for the observed variance includes lifestyle, dietary pattern, level of education and the sophistication of health care system. This study aims to identify the pattern and clinical presentations of gynaecological malignancies at Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso over a five-year period.Methods: This was a retrospective study involving one hundred and twenty-three (123) patients with a histological diagnosis of gynecological malignancy.Results: Patients with gynaecological malignancies accounted for 3.6% of the patients seen in the period under review. Majority of these patients were multiparous and between the age range of 50 and 69 years. The commonest form of gynaecological malignancy seen was cervical cancer.Conclusion: Health care programs and policies that strengthen public awareness campaigns, health education and health promotion like human papilloma virus vaccination and follow up surveillance will help to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with gynaecological malignancies. Keywords: appraisal, pattern, presentation, gynaecological malignancies