[Lung cancer in Senegal]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Lung cancer incidence is rapidly increasing in Africa.
• The study focuses on patients treated at the Principal Hospital in Dakar, Senegal, between 2002 and 2007.
• Lung cancer presents a significant health challenge in Dakar.

Purpose:

• To analyze the clinical, therapeutic, and prognostic features of lung cancer patients in Dakar.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of chemotherapy in improving survival rates.
• To identify challenges in lung cancer management within the African socio-economic context.

Summary:

• A prospective study of 72 lung cancer patients in Dakar revealed a predominantly male demographic (88%) with a mean age of 59.2 years, often smokers.
• Histological diagnoses included squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large-cell carcinoma, with most cases diagnosed at advanced stages (Grade IV).
• Chemotherapy, though feasible, was costly and inaccessible to many, yet significantly improved median survival by 4 months compared to symptomatic management alone.

Impact:

• The study highlights the need for accessible therapeutic standards adapted to the African socio-economic setting.
• Improved diagnostic capabilities, such as bronchial endoscopy and CT-guided biopsy, have increased histological diagnosis rates.
• Urgent implementation of anti-tobacco prevention policies is crucial to address the rising lung cancer burden.