Histopathological Trends of Cancer in Burundi: A Retrospective Review

Abstract

Cancer epidemiology in Burundi is insufficiently documented, and institution-based data are essential to complement national and global estimates. This study aimed to describe the demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of cancer cases diagnosed at two major pathology centers in Burundi and to compare these findings with GLOBOCAN estimates. A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted using cancer cases diagnosed at Bujapath-CHUK. Data on age, sex, cancer site, and histological type were analyzed and compared with GLOBOCAN 2020 and 2022 estimates for Burundi. Cancer predominantly affected middle-aged and older adults, with a mean age of 52.5 years and a median of 56 years. The majority of cases occurred in the 25 - 64-year age group, indicating a substantial burden among economically productive populations. Pediatric cancers, including retinoblastoma and bone tumors, were also identified. The male-to-female ratio was nearly equal, reflecting the significant contribution of female cancers, particularly breast and cervical cancer. Breast, skin, prostate, and colorectal cancers accounted for more than 65% of cases. Histologically, carcinoma and adenocarcinoma represented approximately 80% of diagnoses. Infection-related cancers, including Kaposi sarcoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, were present, underscoring the influence of HIV and viral hepatitis. Overall, the observed patterns showed strong concordance with GLOBOCAN incidence rankings for Burundi. The cancer profile observed in this institutional cohort aligns closely with GLOBOCAN estimates for Burundi and highlights a substantial burden among working-age adults. Despite limitations related to institutional representativeness and absence of age-standardized rates, these findings provide valuable evidence to inform cancer prevention, early detection, and national cancer control strategies.