Epidemiological Profile of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Brazil

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health concern, ranking as the sixth most common neoplasm and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. This study aimed to consolidate data on HCC to provide a comprehensive epidemiological profile in Brazil.

This retrospective study analyzed secondary data extracted from the Mortality Information System (SIM), Hospital Cancer Registry (RHC), and Population-Based Cancer Registry (RCBP) from 2000 to 2019. The analysis included 26,349 HCC cases, incorporating variables such as age, sex, stage at diagnosis, treatment modalities, and mortality rates. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square test, Student's t-test, and logistic regression models.

The number of HCC cases in Brazil has progressively increased over time. Most patients were male (16,631 of 26,349; 63.1%), with a mean age of 60-61 years. A large proportion of patients were diagnosed at an advanced stage (4,991 of 10,645; 46.9%), which limited curative treatment options. Only 38.7% (10,064) of 26,349 patients received any form of treatment. Mortality was significantly increased, 60.6% (5,891 of 9,727 cases).

These findings highlight the critical need for improved epidemiological surveillance, expanded screening programs, and standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols for HCC in Brazil. The high prevalence of late-stage diagnoses and limited access to treatment underscores the urgent need to implement effective public health policies to promote early detection and improve disease management.