Profile of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital Makassar 2011 – 2021

Abstract

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is Indonesia’s most common head and neck malignancy. NPC presents non-specific signs and symptoms, which lead to a late or missed diagnosis. Early detection and prevention are essential based on the NPC profile. Objective: This study aimed to assess NPC’s sociodemographic and clinical characteristics in Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital Makassar 2011– 2021. Method: Observational descriptive study with a cross-sectional design was conducted by using secondary data collecting medical records of all NPC patients in Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital Makassar 2011 – 2021. Results: Out of 1 096 patients, 70.3 % of the patients were male, and most of them were from Makassar and Bugis. A palpable lump in the neck is the most common complaint in presentation (28.8 %), followed by nasal congestion (18.6 %). Salted fish consumption was the most prevalent risk factor (28.1 %). Conclusion: Studying the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of NPC patients is the most critical factor that causes NPC problems.