Epidemiology of Orofacial Cancers at the National Center for Odonto-Stomatology Professor Hamady Traoré: 112 Cases

Orofacial cancers are primary or secondary malignant cell proliferations that develop from the constituent elements of the orofacial region. In our context, the prognosis for this condition remains poor due to the attribution of these tumors to mystical causes and poverty leading to delays in seeking medical attention. The objective of this study was to investigate the epidemiological and clinical aspects of orofacial cancers. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a 4-year period (January 2020 to December 2023) that included all cases of orofacial cancer confirmed by histological examination. The variables studied were compiled, entered and analyzed using SPSS 21 software. We recorded 112 cases during the study period. The 61 years and older age group was the most represented, accounting for 34.82% of cases. The mean age was 50 years. Females were predominant, with a sex ratio of 0.84. Poor oral hygiene was observed in 91.07% (n=102) of cases, and smoking in 10.72% (n=12). The reason for consultation was swelling in 63.39% (n=71) of cases. Mandibular involvement was observed in 26.78% (n=30), followed by maxillary and lingual involvement in 18.75% (n=21) of each. Squamous cell carcinoma accounted for 63.39% (n=71). Surgery was performed in 18.75% (n=21). In-hospital mortality was 6.25% (n=7). Orofacial cancers are common in our setting, and the predominance was female. The most frequent histological type was squamous cell carcinoma.