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Primary malignant nervous system neoplasms. Birth cohort effect in the elderly
Archives of Neurology
|November 1, 1985
Summary
Mortality rates for primary malignant nervous system neoplasms (NSNs) reflect incidence, showing a significant cohort effect in older white men from 1940-1975. Further research is needed to determine if this increase is real or due to improved diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
- Oncology
Background:
- Mortality data for primary malignant nervous system neoplasms (NSNs) can serve as a reliable indicator of incidence.
- Understanding trends in NSN mortality is crucial for public health and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze age- and sex-specific mortality trends for primary malignant NSNs in the contiguous United States from 1940 to 1975.
- To identify potential cohort effects in NSN mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Utilized national mortality data for primary malignant NSNs in white populations across the contiguous United States.
- Analyzed data by age, sex, and birth cohort for the period 1940-1975.
Main Results:
- A notable cohort effect was observed in elderly white individuals of both sexes regarding NSN mortality.
- For white men aged 60-64, mortality increased from 5.3 to 16.1 per 100,000 for birth cohorts from 1880 to 1910, respectively.
- No clear cohort effect was identified in younger populations.
Conclusions:
- The observed increase in NSN mortality may be attributed to enhanced diagnostic capabilities and more thorough case ascertainment.
- Further investigation is necessary to differentiate between a genuine rise in NSN incidence and an artifact of improved reporting.