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Cancer in Costa Rica
R Sierra1, D M Parkin, G M Leiva
1Institute of Health Research, University of Costa Rica, San José.
Cancer Research
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Stomach cancer incidence is high in Costa Rica, second only to Japan, with regional variations suggesting environmental factors. Lung cancer rates are dramatically increasing in both sexes.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cancer incidence and mortality data from Costa Rica (1979-1983) are analyzed.
- International comparisons are made with Latin America, USA, Europe, and Japan.
- Focus on major cancer sites, age, sex, residence, and geographic variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate and present cancer incidence and mortality rates in Costa Rica.
- To identify trends and geographic variations in cancer risk.
- To explore potential etiological factors, including environmental influences.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the national tumor registry of Costa Rica (1979-1983).
- Calculated incidence rates by age, sex, urban-rural residence, and geographic region.
- Analyzed mortality trends and compared results internationally.
Main Results:
- Stomach cancer is the most frequent neoplasm, with declining but high rates compared globally.
- Cervical cancer is the major female site; declining rates in young women may be linked to screening.
- Lung cancer incidence is increasing dramatically in both sexes; Hodgkin's disease and acute lymphocytic leukemia show high childhood rates.
Conclusions:
- Regional variations in stomach cancer risk suggest significant environmental influences.
- Cervical cancer screening may impact rates in younger women, but doesn't explain geographic disparities.
- Increasing lung cancer rates and high childhood leukemia/Hodgkin's disease incidence warrant further investigation.