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Declining cancer rates in the 1990s
R McKean-Cowdin1, H S Feigelson, R K Ross
1Department of Preventive Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90033-0800, USA. mckean@hsc.usc.edu
Summary
Cancer incidence and mortality declined between 1991-1995, primarily due to reduced smoking-related cancers like lung cancer. However, liver cancer mortality is increasing, posing a new public health challenge.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide.
- Understanding trends in cancer incidence and mortality is crucial for public health planning and resource allocation.
- Identifying key risk factors driving these trends is essential for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present evidence of significant changes in cancer rates from 1991 to 1995.
- To identify major risk factors influencing cancer mortality and incidence trends.
- To analyze the impact of smoking cessation on cancer rates.
Main Methods:
- Utilized national surveillance data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program.
- Employed data from the National Center for Health Statistics for comprehensive analysis.
- Calculated incidence and mortality rates for various cancer sites.
Main Results:
- Overall cancer incidence and mortality decreased between 1991-1995, largely driven by reduced rates of smoking-related cancers, particularly lung cancer.
- Mortality declined significantly for 11 cancer sites in men and 12 in women.
- Liver cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma showed increasing mortality, with liver cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma also exhibiting rising incidence.
Conclusions:
- Cancer rates are generally declining, attributable to decreased smoking-related cancer rates.
- Rising liver cancer mortality presents a significant public health concern.
- Effective treatments for hepatitis B and C are needed to combat increasing liver cancer mortality.