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Achalasia in Zimbabwean blacks.
South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|February 16, 1985
Summary
This study documents achalasia in Zimbabwe, finding a low incidence (0.03/100,000) with male predominance. Key features include dysphagia, with a need to rule out esophageal carcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Achalasia incidence and clinical presentation in Zimbabwe remain undocumented.
- Previous research lacks data on this rare esophageal motility disorder in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the incidence and clinical features of achalasia in Zimbabwe.
- To establish baseline data for achalasia in a previously unstudied population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of 25 achalasia patients.
- Data collected over a 10-year period (1974-1983) from Bulawayo and Harare.
- Estimated population incidence calculation.
Main Results:
- An estimated incidence of 0.03 per 100,000 population per year was found.
- Achalasia affected all age groups, with a male preponderance.
- Dysphagia was a universal symptom, with durations ranging from 2 weeks to 15 years. Parotid enlargement and respiratory infections were noted in some patients.
Conclusions:
- Achalasia is significantly less common in Zimbabwe compared to Europe and America.
- Clinical presentation is similar to other regions, emphasizing the need to exclude esophageal carcinoma.
- Further research is warranted to understand regional variations in achalasia.