The incidence of prostate cancer (Pca) in Northern Tanzania has seen a significant increase in recent years. A study published in BMC Cancer reveals alarming trends in the prevalence, clinicopathological characteristics, and treatment outcomes of prostate cancer in the region. This study, conducted by KCMC Hospital, highlights the increasing burden of prostate cancer and calls for urgent action to improve early detection and treatment.

Prostate Cancer in Northern Tanzania
Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men globally. However, limited epidemiological data exists regarding the disease in Tanzania, making it difficult for policymakers to fully comprehend the extent of the health challenge. To address this gap, researchers from Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) analyzed data from the Kilimanjaro Cancer Registry between 2015 and 2021 to understand the prevalence, trends, and clinicopathological characteristics of prostate cancer in this region.

Key Findings of the Study
Over the study period, 5164 adult men were diagnosed with cancer, and 1619 (31.4%) of these were cases of prostate cancer. The mean age at presentation was 73.9 years, with most patients coming from the Kilimanjaro region (74.1%). A large proportion of patients (99.4%) were symptomatic at diagnosis, with lower urinary tract symptoms being the most common complaint (76.8%). Alarmingly, 43.6% of the patients presented with metastatic disease at diagnosis, underscoring the advanced stage at which prostate cancer is being diagnosed in the region.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and Gleason Scores
The study also revealed high PSA levels at diagnosis, with over 51% of patients having PSA levels greater than 100 ng/mL. In terms of tumor grading, Gleason scores of 4 and 5 (indicating high-grade cancer) were found in 60.7% of cases. These findings highlight the severity of prostate cancer in northern Tanzania and point to the urgent need for improved screening and early detection strategies.

Treatment Pathways and Outcomes
The treatment of choice for most patients (94.6%) was androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), reflecting the advanced stage at which most patients were diagnosed. The study emphasizes the need for a shift in healthcare strategies to focus on early detection and effective treatment, potentially saving lives through timely interventions.

Insights from Tanzania
This study is the first of its kind to comprehensively assess the trend and characteristics of prostate cancer in northern Tanzania. “Prostate cancer has emerged as a significant health issue in the region, but there is a lack of awareness and resources for early detection and screening,” says Dr. Thadeus Mshana, a lead researcher at KCMC. “By understanding these trends, we can help shape better health policies and advocate for resources to combat prostate cancer effectively.”

Call for Action
The findings of this study underline the importance of early prostate cancer screening and the need for better diagnostic facilities in Tanzania. The rising burden of metastatic prostate cancer presents a growing healthcare challenge, with more men likely to face advanced stages of the disease unless interventions are made.

Collaboration and Funding
This research was conducted by KCMC Hospital in collaboration with local and international partners, including the Kilimanjaro Cancer Registry. The study was funded through local government health initiatives and international cancer research grants aimed at improving cancer care and awareness in Sub-Saharan Africa.

About the Publication
This study is published in BMC Cancer: “Trend in incidence and clinicopathological characteristics of prostate cancer in Northern Tanzania: analysis from a population-based cancer registry data, 2015–2021.”

Ngowi, B.N., Mremi, A., Mbwambo, O.J., Seventh, F., Kalonge, S.H., Nkya, C., Mshana, T.J., Kennedy, I.J., Mitao, M.P., Nyindo, M., Mmbaga, B.T., Mteta, K.A., 2024a. Trend in incidence and clinicopathological characteristics of prostate cancer in Northern Tanzania: analysis from a population based cancer registry data 2015–2021. BMC Cancer 24, 1424.