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Carcinoma of the cervix uteri in Zaria: etiological factors
Author(s) -
Emembolu J.O.,
Ekwempu C.C.
Publication year - 1988
Publication title -
international journal of gynecology and obstetrics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.895
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1879-3479
pISSN - 0020-7292
DOI - 10.1016/0020-7292(88)90272-x
Subject(s) - medicine , cervix , gynecology , shyness , obstetrics , attendance , etiology , cancer , anxiety , psychiatry , economics , economic growth
The study conducted at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria from January to December, 1984 showed that carcinoma of the cervix uteri occurred in 4.18% of new gynecological attendances; 68.9% of the cases occurred in the age range 40–55 years. Early age at marriage (80.0), and at first pregnancy (77.8%) as well as multiple marriages (48.9%) and low contraceptive usage were identifiable associated factors. The parity of the patient did not seem to be of significance. The earliest presenting symptom was post‐coital bleeding occurring 10.8 months prior to attendance for medical advice. However, late presentation (in Stages IIb–IV) in 86.7% of cases was due to illiteracy, shyness, male dominance and non‐recognition of the importance of early warning symptoms.