The profile of women who died with a diagnosis of Gynecological Cancer at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic hospital over a four-year period

Abstract

Background: A substantial number of women die of gynecological cancer each year. The aim of the study was to investigate the profile and complications among women who died with a diagnosis of gynecological cancer while admitted in the gynecological oncology ward at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital over a four – year period.

Objectives: To describe the demographic profile of these participants, to determine the common cancer type and medical complications at presentation, lastly to determine treatment related complications based on the treatment modality received among the study cohort.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of participant’s records between 01 July 2015 to 31st July 2019. Data regarding variables mentioned above was extracted using the ward registry to identify files that met the inclusion criteria onto our data collection sheet. Descriptive statistic principles were applied during analysis.

Results: 48 files met the inclusion criteria of the 368 admissions. Mean age 53 years (SD) (19-88). South African (SA) citizens 41 (85%), non-SA were 7 (15%). Africans 44 (92%), whites 3 (6%) Coloureds 1 (2%). Cervical cancer 18 (37, 5%), 13 (27, 7%) ovarian cancer, 12 (25%) endometrial cancer and 5 (9.8%) others. Obstructive uropathy 12 (25%) at presentation, hemorrhage 14 (29%) and sepsis 15 (31) after or at surgery.

Conclusion: Most young women die from cancer and treatment related complications, commonly due to cervical cancer. Hemorrhage and sepsis were associated with death. More emphasis on gynecological cancers education, importance of screening, early presentation to healthcare facilities and availability of more facilities that offer gynecologic oncology treatment will benefit women in SA by decreasing the long waiting periods for theatre and chemoradiation.