Population-based study of Hodgkin's lymphoma in Kuwait
S Alshemmari1, K P Sajnani, S Refaat
1Department of Medicine, Kuwait University, State of Kuwait . salem61@gmail.com
The Gulf Journal of Oncology
|December 24, 2010
Summary
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) incidence in Kuwait is lower than global rates but similar to Asian populations. The study observed variations among ethnic groups and an increasing incidence in females.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a significant malignant nodal lymphoma globally, with increasing incidence in Western countries.
- Ethnic variations in cancer incidence may offer insights into etiological factors, with some studies suggesting an association between ethnicity and HL risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and its subtypes in Kuwait.
- To analyze changes in HL incidence over time, considering age, sex, and ethnicity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 293 newly diagnosed HL cases between 1998 and 2006 at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center.
- Cross-validation of incidence data with the national Cancer Registry and review of patient medical records for clinical data.
Main Results:
- The median age at diagnosis for classical HL (cHL) and nodular lymphocyte-predominant HL (NLPHL) was 39 and 36 years, respectively.
- The age-adjusted HL incidence rate was 2.1 per 100,000 person-years; cHL accounted for 92.5% of cases.
- While HL predominantly affected males (2:1 ratio), a higher annual percentage increase in incidence was observed in both Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti females.
Conclusions:
- Hodgkin lymphoma incidence in Kuwait is slightly lower than worldwide rates but comparable to Asian populations.
- Significant variations in HL incidence were noted among different ethnic subgroups within Kuwait.
- An unexplained increase in the mean annual percentage change of HL incidence was observed in both Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti females.
