EPIDEMIOLOGICAL, CLINICAL, AND THERAPEUTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF COLORECTAL POLYPS : A SEVEN-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE STUDY AT CHEIKH ZAYED HOSPITAL IN NOUAKCHOTT

Introduction: Colorectal polyps are common digestive lesions that may progress to colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy enables both diagnosis and endoscopic removal, making early detection essential. In countries lacking systematic screening programs, polyps are often discovered at a symptomatic stage, which may influence their epidemiological and histological characteristics. Materials and

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over a seven-year period (September 2015 to September 2022) in the endoscopy unit of Cheikh Zayed Hospital, Nouakchott. All patients who underwent endoscopic polypectomy were included. Demographic, clinical, endoscopic, histological and therapeutic parameters were collected from endoscopy reports and pathology records. Data analysis was descriptive.

Conclusion:Colorectal polyps in this series were mainly observed in young patients, with a predominance of hyperplastic lesions. This profile may be related to the absence of a structured colorectal cancer screening program, limiting early detection of adenomatous polyps typically seen in older populations. The high proportion of rectal and sessile polyps reflects the characteristics of this young cohort. Diathermic snare polypectomy proved safe and effective. Expanding access to colonoscopy and implementing screening strategies may help reduce the future burden of colorectal cancer in Mauritania.