A retrospective analysis of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) in Papua New Guinea (PNG) 2001–2008

Abstract

Aim The aim of the study was to analyse all recorded cases of CML in PNG from 2001 to 2008 at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). Methods This study was retrospective. Data on leukaemia cases in PNG from 2001 to 2008 were accessed from the bone marrow registry in PMGH, the key tertiary referral hospital for the country. Data were analysed, tabulated and graphed using Epi Info and Microsoft Excel. Results CML comprised 27% of all leukaemias with 53 registered cases from 2001 to 2008. Most cases of CML presented in the age range 26–30 years with an equal sex ratio. Fifty-two per cent of CML cases presented in chronic phase, and 28% in accelerated phase. The majority of cases were diagnosed using bone marrow morphology at PMGH. Conclusions In PNG a younger population is diagnosed with CML, possibly because of inaccurate age estimates and reduced the life expectancy. Definitive estimates of incidence and prevalence are significantly underestimated due to voluntary registration, non-national coordination and hospital rather than population based data collection. With sparse clinical data and the absence of effective treatment, the study quantifies a great need for innovative programs such as the Glivec International Patient Assistance Program.