Cancer incidence and mortality in Medellin-Colombia, 2010-2014

Abstract

Background: Population level cancer morbidity data is limited in Colombia, where breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal and stomach cancer as well as acute pediatric leukemia correspond to 31.7% of cancer mortality. This study aims to provide information on cancer incidence and mortality in a Colombian population during 2010-2014, based on the data and methodology of the Population-based Cancer Registry of Antioquia to facilitate the implementation of cancer control strategies.

Methods: This study is a descriptive study, whose object population resides in the urban area of the municipality of Medellin. The cancers prioritized by the cancer control plan of Colombia (cancers-PDCC) were included for the analysis. The collection, processing and systematization of the data were performed in accordance with internationally standardized parameters for population cancer registries. Incidence and mortality rates were calculated by gender, age and tumor location.

Results: During 2010-2014 there were 25,483 new cancer cases recorded in Medellin, of which 43.5% corresponded to the malignant tumors prioritized in the national Cancer Control Plan, in addition to stomach cancer, which is not contemplated in the national plan. For the same period, 14,921 cancer deaths were reported, 53.5% in women.

Conclusion: Cancer is a health problem for the population of Medellin. It is necessary to emphasize research and monitor risk factors, the health response and the capacity of the health provider network in face of the growing demand of this epidemic.

Authors

• Mary Ruth Brome Bohórquez Médica Especialista en Patología. Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Antioquia.
• Diego Montoya Restrepo Especialista en Formulación de Proyectos. Gerente de Sistemas de Información en Salud. Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Antioquia.
• Liseth Amell Médica. Magister en Salud Pública. Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Antioquia.