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Recent trends in cervix uteri cancer
S S Devesa1, J L Young, L A Brinton
1Division of Cancer Etiology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Cancer
|November 15, 1989
Summary
Cervix uteri cancer rates declined in the US from the 1970s-1980s, despite changing risk factors. Widespread cervical cytologic screening counteracted potential increases, though continued surveillance is needed.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cervix uteri cancer risk factors like sexual activity, smoking, and contraceptive use have evolved.
- Understanding temporal trends in cancer incidence and mortality is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze US trends in cervix uteri cancer incidence and mortality from the 1970s to the 1980s.
- To investigate the impact of changing risk factor prevalence on cancer trends.
- To assess the role of cervical cytologic screening programs in influencing these trends.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of US population-based cancer data from the 1970s and 1980s.
- Examination of incidence and mortality rates stratified by race, age, and histologic type.
- Correlation of cancer trends with changes in known risk factor prevalence.
Main Results:
- Invasive cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates decreased for both black and white populations, with moderating declines in young whites.
- Carcinoma in situ rates showed stability or decline, more pronounced in black women.
- Increasing trends were observed only in specific white age groups or histologic types, notably adenocarcinoma.
Conclusions:
- Declining trends in cervix uteri cancer are attributed to widespread cervical cytologic screening, offsetting increases from evolving risk factors.
- Continued surveillance is essential, particularly for cervical adenocarcinoma trends.
- Screening programs have been effective in reducing the burden of invasive cervical cancer.