“Sociodemographic and Clinical Profile of Gastric Cancer Patients Treated at the Cancer League Hospital, San Pedro Sula (2014-2017)

Abstract

Introduction: In Honduras, gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death, with late diagnosis and high mortality. Objective: To determine the sociodemographic and clinical profile of gastric cancer patients at the Hospital Liga Contra el Cáncer, San Pedro Sula. Materials and Methods: This observational, descriptive, and retrospective study analyzed 105 clinical records of gastric cancer patients treated at the Hospital Liga Contra el Cáncer in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, from 2014 to 2017. Sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment-related data were colected using a standardized format. The data were organized into an anonymized database and analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing frequencies, percentages, and statistical tests to evaluate relationships between variables. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and confidentiality regulations. Results: A total of 105 clinical records were analyzed, of which 52.1% (n =57) corresponded to male patients and 45.7% (n = 48) to female patients (Table 2). The mean age was 63 years, with a standard deviation of 13.4. A significant proportion (69.5%) were from the northwestern region of the country. Most cases (34.3%, n = 36) were diagnosed at stage III. The most common histological type was intestinal adenocarcinoma (70.5%, n = 74). The predominant endoscopic finding was Borrmann type III (41.9%, n = 44). The most frequently indicated treatment was medical-surgical (34.3%, n = 36); however, 66% (n = 43) of patients did not continue folow-up beyond six months. Conclusion: It was found that gastric cancer mainly affects men over 60 years old with preventable risk factors, highlighting the urgent need for early detection and prevention strategies.