Trends in cancer incidence in Cali, Colombia

Trends in cancer incidence from 1962 to 177 provided by the cancer registry of Cali, Colombia, are presented. A decline in rates of cancer of the oral cavity, esophagus, and larynx, has coincided with an increase in the rates of lung cancer in women of all ages and in men over 65 years of age. No such rise in lung cancer has been detected in young males. Colon cancer incidence has increased, and a larger proportion of tumors in later years is concentrated around the sigmoid colon. Cervical cancer incidence has declined, but carcinoma in situ of the cervix is being more frequently diagnosed probably as a consequence of vaginal cytology screening programs. Similarities of these findings with those of Puerto Rico and contrasts with trends in the United States and Europe are discussed.