Insights from the Muk and Maseb Radiotherapy Centre in Kinshasa: A Study of 43 Cases of Rectal Cancer

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Résumé

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Despite global advancements, sub-Saharan Africa, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo, faces considerable challenges in implementing effective treatment protocols, negatively impacting patient outcomes. This study analyzes 43 rectal cancer patients treated at the Muk and Maseb Radiotherapy Centre within the Centre Hospitalier Nganda in Kinshasa.
Methodology: We conducted a cohort study with a retrospective data collection approach. The study encompassed all rectal cancer patients treated from January 1, 2020, to December 2024, with follow-up until October 2025. Data were collected between July 2025 and October 30, 2025, and analyzed using SPSS 2021.
Results: The average age of patients was 51.67 years, with ages ranging from 22 to 74. The male-to-female ratio was 0.72 (18/25). Performance status was predominantly 0 (44.2%), followed by 1 (41.9%). Tumors were classified as T3 (48.8%) or T4 (51.2%), with lymph node involvement in 76.7% of cases. Curative intent radiotherapy was planned for 86% of patients, with the PRODIGE 23 protocol being the most commonly implemented. The main chemotherapy regimens were FOLFOX 4 (20.93%) and XELOX (18.60%). The delay from diagnosis to radiotherapy consultation averaged 134 days, significantly affecting management. The mean overall survival was 24.30 months (95% CI 19 - 30), with a 3-year survival rate of 20.9%.
Conclusion: In summary, timely and high-quality care is crucial for improving survival rates in rectal cancer patients in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Addressing delays in treatment and implementing standardized protocols can significantly enhance patient outcomes and overall prognosis.

Mots-clés

Rectal, Cancer, Radiotherapy, Outcomes, Kinshasa