Prevalence and epidemiological profile of cervical cancer patients attending Nyeri County and Referral Hospital, Kenya: a review of records 2017 – 2022.

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in Kenya. This study aimed to establish the prevalence and epidemiological characterization of cervical cancer patients registered in Nyeri County and Referral Hospital, Kenya. Methods This was a retrospective observational design that involved the systematic collection and analysis of data from 2328 patient records. Relevant variables, including demographic characteristics, clinical features, treatment modalities and survival outcomes, were extracted and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of cervical cancer, while Chi-square test was performed to assess the association between various factors and survival outcomes. Multivariate analysis was conducted to control for confounding variables and determine the independent effects of predictors. Ethical clearance was obtained and ethical principles maintained. Results Records of 2328 cancer patients were analyzed, out of which 120 were cervical cancer. Majority of cervical cancer patients were aged 50-59 years with majority residing in Nyeri County. The prevalence of cervical cancer was 5.16%. The overall survival rate for cervical cancer patients was 58.33%. Advanced age and late-stage diagnosis were factors associated with lower survival rates. Conclusions The study revealed a prevalence of 5.16% of cervical cancer among patients attending Nyeri County and Referral Hospital in Kenya from the year 2017 to 2022 with an overall survival rate of 58.33%. Age and late-stage diagnosis were found to be influential factors in survival outcomes. Therefore, improving early detection and initiation of early treatment for all cervical cancer patients is required in order to improve survival status.