EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF LIVER CANCER AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN SOUTH SUDAN: AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE UNDERLYING CAUSES OF HIGH MORTALITY RATES

Mohammed Adam Idris Hamad*, Dr. Purnima Shrivastava, Dr. Mohamadmoin K. Modasiya and Mustafa Hassan Ibrahim Kashkosh

ABSTRACT

Background: Liver disease is a significant public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, but there is limited data
on its prevalence and characteristics in South Sudan. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of liver enzymatic
abnormalities and liver damage in a cohort of participants from South Sudan. Methods: A cross-sectional study
was conducted among 300 participants from various states in South Sudan. Liver function tests (LFTs) were
performed, and participants with abnormal LFTs underwent further investigation, including ultrasound and Fibro-
Scan studies. Results: The study found a high prevalence of liver enzymatic abnormalities, with over 50% of
participants exhibiting elevated liver parameters. Further investigation revealed evidence of tumors and cirrhosis in
a subset of participants. Conclusion: This study highlights the significant burden of liver disease in South Sudan
and underscores the need for increased awareness, screening, and treatment of liver disease in this population.
Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying causes of liver disease in South Sudan and to inform the
development of effective public health interventions.

Keywords: Liver disease, liver enzymatic abnormalities, South Sudan, public health.