Abstract
e22200 Background:Cancer statistics from Afghanistan is not available. Aim of the exercise was to see pattern of cancer in the region. The analysis was done by inviting existing patients in a cancer assistance camp organized in Kabul Afghanistan. There are no existing cancer registries or treatment facilities in the country. Patients travel to neighboring states for treatment. Methods: Cancer assistance camps are one of the unique way to offer some medical as well as social and educational support to the patients and their families. National cancer Society an NGO from Delhi, India, organized two such camps at Kabul. Media advertisement was used to invite cancer patients and relatives. Overall about 350 patients were examined. Data from these patients were analysed. Results: Overall the commonest malignancy was found to be esophageal cancer. Nearly 25 % of the patients presented with signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer. GE junction tumors were common as well. Second commonest problem was lung cancer. Cases of head and neck cancer were not as common. Amongst females breast cancer was found to be commonest and about 15 % of ladies had female cancer. Evaluation of the probable causes of very high incidence of esophageal cancer was carried out by analyzing food habits. The population had unique habit of using large quantity of red barbeque meat. Large quantity means beyond A kilogram per day. The food is barbecued on wood and eaten without any spices.Similar analysis from similar altitude in Kashmir region of India, had shown very high incidence of GE junction and stomach cancer. The food pattern is similar except that the barbecued food is added with spices. Conclusions: The incidence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is unexpectedly high. There is a definite need to study causative mechanisms in the Himalayan part. These areas could serve as good models for preventive strategies as well as clinical trials for upper GI cancer. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
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