African Journals Online
The Ethiopian Journal of Health Development
(EJHD)

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Volume 17, Number 2 August 2003
ABSTRACTS

Cancer Care in sub-Saharan Africa – Urgent Need for Population–based Cancer Registries

Okobia M.N

Background: The incidence of malignant diseases is increasing globally, particularly in the developing countries as shown by recent cancer statistics from the World Health Organization Reports. It is anticipated that with increase in life expectancy consequent upon improved standard of living and increasing industrialization, the burden of cancer in sub-Saharan Africa is likely to increase in the new millennium.

Objective: This article is designed to review the existing literature on cancer statistics in sub-Saharan Africa and assess the need for population-based cancer registries to enhance cancer care and prevention within the region.

Design: Relevant literature on cancer statistics in sub-Saharan Africa and the developed Western countries were obtained from the Internet and local libraries. Information obtained from this search formed the basis of this review.

Results: There are few cancer registries in sub-Saharan Africa and most of them are hospital-based. Data from these