Colorectal cancer in Mauritius: facts and figures -­‐ A ten year retrospective study

Abstract

Among the various types of cancers in Mauritius, colorectal cancer has evolved as 1st in male and 3rd in female in 2008 (National Cancer Action Plan 2010 MOH & QL, Mauritius). Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. A retrospective study of 10 years (2001-­‐2010) has been carried out using the National Cancer Registry (NCR) data. In our study, age wise distribution showed that the highest incidence rate was seen in age group of 55-­‐ 74. Male to female ratio was found to be 1.2:1 (p=0.028). Topographic distribution of lesion showed that maximum cases were seen in colon. Among the registered addresses, urban had higher incidence. This study highlights that NCR should be a strong part of future planning for national cancer prevention and control programs. The need to introduce screening like FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) or colonoscopy, for colorectal cancer in people more than 50 years for early diagnosis and control of the disease in Mauritius is advocated.

KEY WORDS: Colorectal cancer (CRC); Facts and Figures; Mauritius; Epidemiology; Screening, National Cancer Registry (NCR)