The epidemiology of stomach cancer in Bavaria

Stomach cancer represents an important cause of death in the Federal Republic of Germany, the regional analysis of mortality rates showing that the rates in Bavaria lay significantly above the national average during the years 1952 till 1978. Within this Federal State the mortality again is not uniform but regions in the Northeast with high rates are distinguishable from low mortality in the Southwest. Furthermore, the analysis by age and birth cohorts shows a decrease of mortality from stomach cancer with later years of birth. The considerable differences in consecutive birth cohorts, given the regional patterns, may indicate a varying exposure to etiological factors, most likely to be sought in the early life of the later cancer victims. In an attempt to clarify the reasons for these regional particularities a case-control study is designed to investigate, among other factors, the etiological relevance of nutritional habits. The possible influence of competing causes of death is discussed.