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[Mortality from breast cancer in the European Community (1970-1985)]
M D García Arcal1, M Pollán Santamaría, G López-Abente Ortega
1Servicio de Epidemiología del Cáncer, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Madrid.
Medicina Clinica
|February 5, 1994
Summary
Breast cancer mortality rates show a north-south divide in Europe, with Mediterranean countries experiencing a significant increase. Despite detection programs, European breast cancer deaths continue to rise, particularly in older women.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- A comparative study investigated breast cancer mortality across European Community countries.
- Examined mortality trends from 1970-1985.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze geographical and temporal variations in breast cancer mortality within Europe.
- To identify age-specific trends in breast cancer mortality.
Main Methods:
- Utilized World Health Organization data from 1970-1985.
- Employed Poisson log-lineal models to assess relative risk and temporal trends.
- Developed age-stratified models (15-44, 45-64, >65) to analyze country-specific evolution.
Main Results:
- Observed a distinct north-south mortality gradient, with Mediterranean countries showing 45% lower mortality overall.
- Global mortality trend is slightly increasing, with a steeper rise (7% per 5 years) in Mediterranean nations.
- Age-specific analysis revealed the increase is concentrated in women over 44.
Conclusions:
- Breast cancer mortality continues to rise in Europe, irrespective of screening and survival improvements.
- Despite rising trends, disparities between northern and southern European countries are diminishing.
- Incidence rates are converging between northern and southern European regions.