Epidemiology and Challenges of Managing Breast Cancer in Keffi, North-Central Nigeria: A Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is now the commonest female malignancy worldwide. The prognosis of such depends on the histopathological type, biological behavior, stage at presentation, availability of adequate oncological services. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this this study is to evaluate the statistics and challenges of breast cancer management in the study centre and compare with other centres. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective, descriptive study that spanned over a period of 4 years (January 2015-December 2018). The study was carried out in the General surgery division of the Surgery Department of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi. RESULTS: A total of 199 patients were recruited into this study out of which 196 (98.25%) were females and 3 (1.5%) were males. Their age ranged between 20-60 years. The commonest histopathological variant diagnosed is invasive ductal carcinoma (NOS). Early presentation was seen in 54 (<30%) while 145 (>70%) patients had late clinical presentation. CONCLUSION: Diagnosing and managing breast cancers successfully are mitigated my myriads of factors. Public awareness and provision of adequate care facilities will improve overall survival.