Cancer of the naso-pharynx in Kuwait

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is a significant health concern, particularly in specific geographic regions.
• Understanding the epidemiology and clinical presentation of NPC is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a clinico-pathological study of nasopharyngeal cancer cases in Kuwait.
• To analyze the incidence, demographics, clinical features, and histology of NPC in a defined population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 143 nasopharyngeal malignancy cases.
• Data collected from Al-Sabah Hospital, Kuwait, between 1963 and 1974.
• Inclusion of population demographics and clinical/histological findings.

Main Results:

• Nasopharyngeal cancer constituted 4.2% of all malignancies and 18.3% of head and neck cancers.
• Highest incidence observed in males (2.9:1 ratio).
• Common presenting symptom was cervical lymphadenopathy (83%); commonest histology was undifferentiated and squamous cell carcinoma (28% each).

Conclusions:

• Nasopharyngeal cancer is a prevalent malignancy in Kuwait, with distinct demographic and clinical patterns.
• The findings highlight the importance of early detection, especially in at-risk populations.
• Further research into the etiology of nasopharyngeal cancer is warranted.