Colorectal cancer in the Ukraine: analysis and statistical data

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of death due to malignancy in the Ukraine (21.7 per 100,000 in 1992). Only lung cancer (43.6) and stomach cancer (30.6) occur more frequently. Mortality is high; 47.9% and 38% of patients dying from colon and rectal cancer, respectively, within 1 year. The majority of patients present with advanced disease; 71.5% of patients with colon cancer and 60.1% of patients with rectal cancer have stage 3 or 4. Only 20.4% of patients with colon cancer and 29.4% with rectal cancer are suitable for radical surgery. The range of operative procedures performed reflects the stage of disease. Improvement in operability and survival figures in the Ukraine will result from improved facilities, increased public awareness of colorectal disease, introduction of screening programmes and closer links forged between the Ukraine and other European centres.