Changing Pattern of Childhood Cancers at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Worldwide, the incidence of childhood cancers is increasing and majority of children with cancers live in developing countries. The main aim of the study was to determine the current pattern of childhood malignancies at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital(KBTH), Accra.Methods: A retrospective review of registry data from the KBTH paediatric oncology unit between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2011 was conducted, and results analysed.Results: Out of 495 new cases of cancer, lymphomas (30.7%), leukaemias (18.8%) and retinoblastomas (15.8%) were the commonest cancers diagnosed. CNS tumours were rare (3.4%). Overall, the male: female ratio was 1.3:1. Most patients (232/495; 47%) were inthe 5-10 year age group and majority of embryonal tumours were diagnosed in the 0-4 year age group. The peak ages for Burkitt’s lymphoma and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia were similar, in contrast to reports from developed countries.Conclusion: The number of children diagnosed with cancers at KBTH has increased significantly. Concerted efforts and advocacy towards improving childhood cancer care are required.