Breast cancer in Cape Verde: a 24-year retrospective study of clinical presentation, treatment and outcomes at Agostinho Neto University Hospital.

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is a significant health concern in Cape Verde, but comprehensive data on its presentation, management and outcomes are limited. This study aims to provide insights into breast cancer patterns in this island nation.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 586 breast cancer patients treated at Agostinho Neto University Hospital in Praia, Cape Verde, from January 2000 to May 2024. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment modalities and survival outcomes were collected and analysed.

Results: The study population comprised 578 (98.6%) females and 8 (1.4%) males. The mean age at diagnosis was 52.1 years (SD 13.6) for females and 70 years (SD 16.7) for males. Stage III was the most common presentation (39.4%). Invasive ductal carcinoma was the predominant histological type. Immunohistochemical analysis in 307 patients revealed 69.4% luminal, 26.1% triple-negative and 4.6% HER2-positive subtypes. Treatment primarily involved surgery combined with chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy, with 33.4% receiving radiotherapy. The median follow-up was 36.5 months (range: 1-298 months), and the median survival time was 137.1 months.

Conclusion: This study reveals breast cancer patterns in Cape Verde that share similarities with other African nations, including younger age at diagnosis and higher rates of late-stage presentation compared to Western countries. However, encouraging trends in survival outcomes and diagnostic capabilities were observed. These findings highlight the need for improved early detection strategies and expanded access to comprehensive treatment modalities, particularly radiotherapy, in Cape Verde.