Introduction: Ameloblastoma is the most common odontogenic tumour in Nigeria. A definite geographic variation has been
observed in the frequency of odontogenic tumors from different parts of the world. However, there is no study on the regional
variations in Nigeria. Hence, this study was designed to document the ethnic and geographical distribution of jaw ameloblastoma in
Nigeria.
Methods: Archival data on ameloblastoma from 10 health facilities were obtained. Global Moran’s I detected geographic clustering
in its distribution while Local Getis Ord indicated the location of ameloblastoma clusters. Chi-square tested associations between
variables at 0.05 level of significance.
Results: A total of 1,246 ameloblastoma cases were recorded in Nigeria. Besides substantial state variations, a South-North gradient
was noticed in its distribution. Significant positive spatial autocorrelation was observed in the three major groups while ameloblastoma hotspots were found in the SouthWestern and Northwestern Nigeria. The Igbos had a higher prevalence of ameloblastoma
outside their home region than within.
Conclusion: The study hypothesized that the geographical distribution of ameloblastoma in Nigeria is the result of all or one of
the following: the country’s tropical climate, migration patterns and health seeking behavior. Hopefully, these claims should lead to
further enquiry on the underlying causes.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ahs.v19i1.44
Cite as: Adisa AO, Osayomi T, Effiom OA, Kolude B, Lawal AO, Soyele OO, et al. A geographical analysis of ethnic distribution of jaw ameloblastoma in Nigerians. Afri Health Sci. 2019;19(1). 1677-1686. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ ahs. v19i1.44 
