The Prevalence and Characteristics of Untreated Hernias in Southwest Cameroon

Hernias are one of the most commonly encountered surgical conditions, and every year, more than 20 million hernia repairs are performed worldwide. The surgical management of hernia, however, is largely neglected as a public health priority in developing countries, despite its cost-effectiveness. To date, the prevalence and impact of hernia have not been formally studied in a community setting in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of untreated hernia in the Southwest region of Cameroon.

This study was a subanalysis of a cross-sectional community-based survey on injury in Southwest Cameroon. Households were sampled using a three-stage cluster sampling method. Household representatives reported all untreated hernias occurring in the past year. Data on socioeconomic factors, hernia symptoms, including the presence of hernia incarceration, and treatment attempts were collected between January 2017 and March 2017.

Among 8065 participants, 73 persons reported symptoms of untreated hernia, resulting in an overall prevalence of 7.4 cases per 1000 persons (95% confidence limit 4.98-11.11). Groin hernias were most commonly reported (n = 49, 67.1%) and predominant in young adult males. More than half of persons with untreated hernia (56.7%) reported having symptoms of incarceration, yet 42.1% (n = 16) of these participants did not receive any surgical treatment. Moreover, 21.9% of participants with untreated hernias never presented to formal medical care, primarily because of the high-perceived cost of care. Untreated hernias caused considerable disability, as 21.9% of participants were unable to work because of their symptoms, and 15.1% of households earned less money.

Hernia is a significant surgical problem in Southwest Cameroon. Despite over half of those with unrepaired hernias reporting symptoms of incarceration, home treatment and nonsurgical management were common. Costs associated with formal medical services are a major barrier to obtaining consultation and repair. Greater awareness of hernia complications and cost restructuring should be considered to prevent disability and mortality due to hernia.