The five most frequent cancers in Jamaica

ABSTRACT

The pattern of cancer in Jamaica is in several respects remarkably different from that in Africa, yet also quite different from that in temperate zones (Fig. 6 Table 2). It is unlikely that genetic differences could account for this. A search for possible environmental aetiological factors is clearly indicated for such neoplasms as oesophageal cancer, where Jamaica shows the highest figures of 25 countries compared and where the Caribbean seems to be especially afflicted (Table 2). Carcinoma of the cervix, the highest ranking cancer in females, shows an incidence second to Cali, Columbia. Our present knowledge of the environmental aetiology of this disease, justifies the recommendation that circumcision of newborn boys should be widely offered in Jamaica. This practice would also offer virtually complete protection against penile cancer, a relatively frequent cancer in males. In any event, the knowledge that reasonable cleanliness would go a long way in preventing both cervical and penile cancers should be widely disseminated throughout the Jamaican population. Our breast cancer incidences are remarkably high and indicate that a careful epidemiological study should be dine of the practice of breast-feeding in patients with breast cancer as compared with controls. Gastric cancer, the highest ranking cancer in males, is not frequent in absolute terms when compared with other countries (AU)