Trends in the incidence of colorectal cancer in sub-Saharan Africa: A population-based registry study

In sub-Saharan Africa, colorectal cancer (CRC) has historically been considered a rare disease, although some previous studies have suggested that the incidence is increasing. We examine time trends in the incidence of CRC using data from 12 population-based cancer registries in 11 countries of sub-Saharan Africa that were able to provide time series data for periods of 12 or more years, or with earlier data with which recent rates may be compared. Age-standardized incidence rates were highest in the higher-income countries, and were increasing in all of the populations studied, and these increases were statistically significant in all but three. Current evidence has suggested a link between the increased adoption of western lifestyle habits with colorectal cancer, and along with increasing urbanization of African populations, there is an increase in body weight, as well as evidence of increasing consumption of meat, sugars, and alcohol. The highest rates of colorectal cancer are in highly developed countries, but rates are on the rise in low- and middle-income countries. Here, the authors analyze trends in CRC incidence in sub-Saharan Africa. Using data from 12 population-based registries in 11 countries covering a period of at least 12 years, they found a steady rise in CRC across all regions, possibly due to wider adoption of a western lifestyle, including consumption of more meat, sugars, and alcohol. This highlights the need for prevention, early diagnosis, and management strategies in these regions. image