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Research Article
Epidemiological, Clinical, and Therapeutic Profile of Long-term Breast Cancer Survivors in Cameroon: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Berthe Sabine Esson Mapoko*
,
Esther Dina Bell,
Veronique Batoum Mboua,
Kenn Chi Ndi,
Etienne Atenguena,
Dominique Anaba,
Lionel Tabola,
Pelagie Douanla,
Anne Sango,
Ruth Mapenya,
Anne Marthe Maison,
Sidonie Ananga,
Ambroise Ntama,
Zacharie Sando,
Paul Ndom
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
127-134
Received:
9 October 2025
Accepted:
28 October 2025
Published:
3 December 2025
Abstract: Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is a major public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to late diagnosis and low survival. Studying "long-term survivors" is essential to identifying resilience factors and successful strategies. This study aims to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of long-term breast cancer survivors at the Yaounde General Hospital (YGH) in Cameroon and and identify factors associated with prolonged survival. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study (2008–2018), we analyzed 204 patient records. Long-term survivors were defined as the 68 patients (33.3% of the cohort) who survived for at least three years after their diagnosis. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to detail their profile. Prognostic factors were identified using a Cox regression model. Results: The cohort was predominantly female (98.5%), with a median overall survival of 73.92 months (6.16 years). Patients were typically diagnosed at earlier stages (IIA, IIB, IIIA), and signs of locally advanced disease were rare. Key prognostic factors included (OR = 8.3, p<0.001), radiotherapy (OR = 2.7, p=0.001), and hormone therapy (OR = 2.9, p=0.001), and achieving a complete clinical response to initial treatment (OR = 4.5, p<0.001). The paradoxical association between relapse occurrence (OR = 2.8, p=0.001), and prolonged survival highlights the role of rigorous follow-up. Conclusion: Long-term survivors are characterized by less aggressive initial presentation and access to complete, multimodal treatment. Prioritizing early diagnosis and continuous oncological follow-up is key to improving regional prognosis.
Abstract: Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is a major public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to late diagnosis and low survival. Studying "long-term survivors" is essential to identifying resilience factors and successful strategies. This study aims to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of long-term breas...
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Research Article
Enhancing Early Detection of Breast Cancer Through Community-Based Screening and Awareness in Harar Town, Eastern Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
135-143
Received:
3 November 2025
Accepted:
12 November 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women globally, with disproportionate impacts in low-resource settings due to delayed diagnosis and limited access to screening. In Ethiopia, breast cancer accounts for over 30% of all female cancers, yet early detection remains critically underutilized. Harar Town, located in Eastern Ethiopia, presents unique challenges and opportunities for community-based interventions. This study aimed to strategically advance breast cancer prevention through a market-centered screening and awareness initiative targeting women in Shewa-Ber, the largest public market in Harar. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based screening program was conducted on October 28–29, 2023. Women aged 16 years and above who visited Shewa-Ber market were recruited using convenience sampling. A total of 204 women underwent clinical breast examinations performed by trained healthcare professionals, and 166 completed structured interviews. The survey instrument captured socio-demographic data, reproductive history, substance use, breast health complaints, and knowledge and practice of self-breast examination (SBE). Ethical clearance was obtained, and referrals were provided for suspected cases. Results: Among the 166 respondents, only 43.4% had prior knowledge of SBE, and 23.5% reported practicing it. Notably, 13.3% of screened women exhibited clinical signs suggestive of breast cancer and were referred for further diagnostic evaluation. Risk factors included early menarche (≤13 years), family history of breast cancer (4.2%), contraceptive use (41%), and substance exposure (chat: 24.7%, alcohol: 5.4%, tobacco: 1.8%). Educational attainment was low, with 25.3% of participants having no formal education. Despite 26.5% reporting breast-related symptoms, only one woman had previously accessed ultrasound screening. The intervention revealed significant gaps in awareness, screening access, and health-seeking behavior. Conclusion: This initiative demonstrated the 1581350 feasibility and effectiveness of decentralized, community-based breast cancer screening in a high-traffic public setting. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated public health strategies that combine education, screening, and referral systems to improve early detection and reduce mortality in underserved populations. Recommendations: We recommend scaling this model across similar urban and peri-urban markets in Ethiopia. Health authorities should prioritize training of frontline health workers in breast cancer awareness, embed SBE education into routine outreach, and establish referral linkages for diagnostic follow-up. Future studies should assess longitudinal outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and integration with national cancer control programs.
Abstract: Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women globally, with disproportionate impacts in low-resource settings due to delayed diagnosis and limited access to screening. In Ethiopia, breast cancer accounts for over 30% of all female cancers, yet early detection remains critically underutilized. ...
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Research Article
Management of Male Breast Cancer in Togo:
A Retrospective Study from the National Referral Oncology Unit
Ablavi Adani-Ifè*,
Koffi Amégbor,
Mohaman Djibril
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
144-150
Received:
27 September 2025
Accepted:
11 October 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: Background: Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare cancer. This study aimed to analyze the clinical, pathological, and treatment features of MBC cases managed in an oncological setting in Togo. Methods: A descriptive retrospective study was conducted on all histologically confirmed MBC cases diagnosed between March 2016 and March 2024 at the Oncology Unit of Sylvanus Olympio University Teaching Hospital in Lomé, Togo. Epidemiological, clinical, histological, and therapeutic data were collected from medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Results: Fifteen cases of MBC were identified among 653 confirmed breast cancer cases, representing a frequency of 2.3%. The mean age at diagnosis was 61 ± 15.75 years (range, 36-95 years). Most patients (33%) were aged 60-69 years. The average delay in seeking consultation was 36 months (range: 12-48 months). The most common presenting symptom was a retroareolar breast mass (n = 12; 80%). Invasive carcinoma of no special type was the predominant histological subtype (n = 12; 80%). Immunohistochemistry was performed on seven patients: three had luminal subtypes, while four had triple-negative tumors. Tumors were classified as T2 in 40%, T3 in 13.3%, and T4 in 46.7% of cases. Five patients (33.3%) initially presented with metastasis. Surgery was performed on eight patients. Chemotherapy was given to six patients. Radiotherapy was administered to one patient. Endocrine therapy was prescribed to three patients. Of the 15 patients in this study, two were lost to follow-up before treatment. Among the remaining 13 treated patients, at last follow-up, five were alive, two had no evidence of disease, and three showed evidence of disease. Additionally, three patients were lost to follow-up, and five patients had died. Conclusion: Male breast cancer remains a rare and often overlooked disease in our context, frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. Improving early detection strategies and increasing public awareness are crucial for achieving better outcomes.
Abstract: Background: Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare cancer. This study aimed to analyze the clinical, pathological, and treatment features of MBC cases managed in an oncological setting in Togo. Methods: A descriptive retrospective study was conducted on all histologically confirmed MBC cases diagnosed between March 2016 and March 2024 at the Oncology U...
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Research Article
Comparison of E-cadherin Marker Expression Between Lichen Planus, Leukoplakia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Samira Mostafazadeh,
Shahla Gharenaghadehi,
Fariba Abdal*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
151-156
Received:
30 October 2025
Accepted:
10 November 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: Objective: E-cadherin is a membranous glycoprotein that acts as an adhesive agent in intercellular communication, this marker level decreases in dysplastic condition, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the expression level of the mentioned marker on Oral Lichen Planus (OLP), Oral Leukoplakia (OL) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) lesions. Methods: In this in-vitro study was conducted on 60 pararhyme blocks of patients with OL, OLP, and OSCC (n = 20) using Immunohistochemically (IHC) staining diagnosis were classified as follows: Code 0: Not painted Code 1: Less than 25% staining, Code 2: 25% - 50% staining, Code 3: 50% - 75% staining, Code 4: More than 75% staining and reported as proportional score and data were compared according to gender and lesion type using SPSS 22.0 Software and significance level of p < 0.05). Results: 60 blocks of 60 patients (30 males and 30 females) were included in the study. E-cadherin marker expression on IHC code I (< 25% staining) and code II (25% < 50%) was the most in OSCC (25%) and OL (30%) respectively and the least in OLP (10 and 20% respectively). In IHC code 3 (50% < 75%) and code IV (< 75%) was the most in OLP (40% and 30% respectively) and the least in OSCC (20% and 30% respectively).. There was no significant difference in marker expression according to gender and lesion type (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study show that changes in cadherin expression in leukoplakia and lichen planus compared to squamous cell carcinoma can be considered as an important factor in the expression of dysplasia changes.
Abstract: Objective: E-cadherin is a membranous glycoprotein that acts as an adhesive agent in intercellular communication, this marker level decreases in dysplastic condition, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the expression level of the mentioned marker on Oral Lichen Planus (OLP), Oral Leukoplakia (OL) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) les...
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Review Article
Radiotherapy-Induced Skin Injuries (RISIs): Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
157-166
Received:
14 September 2025
Accepted:
25 October 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
Abstract: Radiotherapy (RT) remains one of the most essential and effective modalities in cancer treatment, administered to more than half of all patients for both curative and palliative purposes. Despite remarkable technological advances in precision targeting and dose modulation, radiation-induced skin injuries (RISIs) remain among the most common and distressing side effects of RT, affecting approximately 85-95% of patients. These cutaneous toxicities—ranging from transient erythema and dry desquamation to severe ulceration, fibrosis, and necrosis—reflect complex cellular and molecular disruptions. The clinical management of RISIs remains inconsistent, with no universally accepted standard of care. While traditional topical agents and dressings provide symptomatic relief, their efficacy is limited by poor stability and insufficient antioxidant activity. Recent evidence underscores the promise of targeted molecular therapies—such as TGF-β/Smad3 and COX-2 inhibition—alongside regenerative approaches involving mesenchymal stem cells, biomaterials, and nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems. Furthermore, integrating predictive biomarkers may enable personalized prevention and treatment strategies. This review synthesizes current insights into the pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms of RISIs, highlighting both established and emerging therapeutic modalities. By bridging mechanistic understanding with translational innovation, it aims to inform the development of more effective, biologically guided interventions that mitigate toxicity, enhance tissue repair, and ultimately improve the quality of life and treatment outcomes for cancer patients.
Abstract: Radiotherapy (RT) remains one of the most essential and effective modalities in cancer treatment, administered to more than half of all patients for both curative and palliative purposes. Despite remarkable technological advances in precision targeting and dose modulation, radiation-induced skin injuries (RISIs) remain among the most common and dis...
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Research Article
Endometrial Cancer in the Pathological Anatomy Department of the Conakry University Hospital (Guinea): 55 Cases over 10 Years (2015–2024)
Conte Ibrahima*,
Sylla Abdoulaye,
Soumah Aboubacar Fode Momo,
Sylla Mohamed,
Diallo Fatoumata Binta,
Diallo Abdourahamane,
Sy Telly,
Keita Namory
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
167-171
Received:
26 October 2025
Accepted:
13 November 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijcocr.20251004.16
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Abstract: Introduction: Endometrial cancer is one of the most common gynaecological cancers. It mainly develops in postmenopausal women and is often diagnosed at a late stage. The aim of this study was to contribute to the study of endometrial cancers. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study covering a 10-year period (1 January 2015 to 31 December 2024) focusing on endometrial biopsy specimens and curettage samples received by the department during the study period. Results: Over a 10-year period, we collected 55 cases of endometrial cancer, representing 6.50% of uterine organic pathologies. Patients in the 60-70 age group were the most affected (34.54%). The average age was 46.2 years, with extremes of 29 and 86 years. The majority were nulliparous and primiparous in 34.54% and 25.45% of cases, respectively. Metrorrhagia was the main reason for consultation in 92.72% of cases. Biopsy was indicated for suspected endometrial cancer in 30.90% of cases. The samples examined were mainly from hysterectomy specimens (70.90%). Macroscopically, 60% of cases involved ulcerative-budding lesions and 65.45% involved diffuse localisation. Histologically, endometrioid carcinoma was the most common type (70.90%) and was limited to the myometrium in 46.15% of cases. Histological grades 2 and 3 were the most commonly observed, accounting for 27.27% and 54.54% of cases, respectively. Conclusion: Pathological examination is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of endometrial cancer. In order to limit the margin of diagnostic error, it is necessary to take a representative sample during the biopsy.
Abstract: Introduction: Endometrial cancer is one of the most common gynaecological cancers. It mainly develops in postmenopausal women and is often diagnosed at a late stage. The aim of this study was to contribute to the study of endometrial cancers. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study covering a 10-year period (1 January 2015 to 31 Decembe...
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Research Article
Perceptions and Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening:
A Phenomenological Analysis in an Urban Health District in Cameroon
Berthe Sabine Esson Mapioko*,
Lyda Saurelle Kom,
Esther Dina Bell,
Veronique Batoum Mboua,
Etienne Atenguena,
Arielle Fonkou,
Claire Baskouda,
Line Medjo,
Christelle Ngono Yeme,
Rosine Ngono,
Zacharie Sando,
Louise Ngo Likeng
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
172-176
Received:
11 November 2025
Accepted:
28 November 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijcocr.20251004.17
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Abstract: Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is the second most common cancer among women in Cameroon, with 2,525 new cases and 1,837 deaths estimated in 2022. Despite the critical importance of screening, national participation remains low (8%–19.6%). This study explored perceptions and barriers to CC screening among non-screened women living in a densely populated urban district of Yaoundé. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted in the Biyem-Assi Health District from September to October 2023. Eleven purposively selected women aged 24–57 years who had never undergone screening were interviewed using semi-structured guides. Data were analyzed through inductive thematic content analysis and interpreted using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Results: Participants perceived CC as severe but showed marked cognitive dissonance: eight women believed screening was unnecessary, often citing fatalism (“If I must be sick, it is God’s decision”). Barriers included cost, fear of results, mistrust of screening quality, and limited health promotion. Systemic gaps-particularly poor outreach and confusion between screening and late-stage diagnosis-further reduced perceived benefits. Conclusion: Non-participation in CC screening results from intertwined psychological, socioeconomic, and systemic barriers. Suggested implications include strengthening communication strategies to address fatalism, improving screening affordability, and enhancing community-level awareness.
Abstract: Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is the second most common cancer among women in Cameroon, with 2,525 new cases and 1,837 deaths estimated in 2022. Despite the critical importance of screening, national participation remains low (8%–19.6%). This study explored perceptions and barriers to CC screening among non-screened women living in a densely p...
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Research Article
Mechanistic Investigation of Resistance to SHR-A1811 and T-DXd, the Third Generation of HER2-ADC, in Breast Cancer
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
177-189
Received:
1 December 2025
Accepted:
11 December 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijcocr.20251004.18
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Abstract: Background: In recent years, the therapeutic landscape for cancer patients has undergone a profound transformation with the emergence of third-generation HER2-targeted ADCs, including T-DXd and SHR-A1811. Nevertheless, recurrence and metastasis are inevitable for most patients, and the mechanisms driving resistance to these ADCs remain poorly understood. Against this backdrop, the present study seeks to elucidate the resistance mechanisms of breast cancer cells to SHR-A1811 and T-DXd, while identifying potential targets to enhance sensitivity to these agents. Methods: Two resistant cell lines-SHR-A1811-resistant and T-DXd-resistant-were established from the parental breast cancer JIMT-1 cell line via successive drug administration. To identify alterations in protein expression profiles, label-free liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) were employed. Validation of the findings was performed using Western blotting, RNA interference, transfection, and the CellTiter-Glo (CTG) Luminescent Cell Viability Assay. Results: A total of 5,664 differentially expressed proteins were quantitatively identified via proteomic analysis comparing SHR-A1811/T-DXd-resistant cells with their sensitive counterparts. Integrated proteomic and scRNA-seq analyses revealed significant up-regulation of CD44 and PLOD2 in resistant cells. Subsequent validation studies confirmed that CD44 expression was substantially higher in both resistant cells relative to their sensitive counterparts, and CD44 knockdown enhanced the sensitivity of the resistant cells to the ADCs. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that CD44 is a critical factor in the development of resistance to SHR-A1811 and T-DXd, with potential utility as both a resistance biomarker for third-generation HER2-ADCs in breast cancer and a therapeutic target to overcome such resistance.
Abstract: Background: In recent years, the therapeutic landscape for cancer patients has undergone a profound transformation with the emergence of third-generation HER2-targeted ADCs, including T-DXd and SHR-A1811. Nevertheless, recurrence and metastasis are inevitable for most patients, and the mechanisms driving resistance to these ADCs remain poorly under...
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