Prostate Cancer Characteristics and Associated Factors in Northern Cameroon

Abstract

Background: The incidence of prostate cancer in Cameroon has been increasing in an alarming rate. The aim of this study is to characterize the form of prostate cancer and associated factors in patients from Cameroon Northern Regions. Methods: All patients with positive prostate biopsy (cancer+) from June 2018 to November 2019 were studied (n = 177). The followings were retrieved: digital rectal examination, standard clinical examinations, laboratory data such as serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, and the Gleason score. Patients self-administered a questionnaire assessing prostate cancer’s risk factors. Results: Patients were mainly from the Far North region (36.72%), and were either farmers or breeders (48.01%). Only prostate adenocarcinoma was present, with predominance of aggressive forms (Gleason score ≥ 7). Significant relationships were observed between Gleason score and 1) patients’ age (P = 0.006), 2) history of urinary tract infections (P = 0.015) and of exposure to agricultural products (P = 0.049), 3) clinical signs (nycturia, pollakiuria, poor acute urine retention, and dysuria) (P = 0.019), 4) prostate weight, and 5) serum PSA levels (P Conclusion: Aggressive forms of adenocarcinoma are the main prostate cancer in these regions, underlining the need for strategies aimed at raising prostate cancer awareness and early detection.