An overview of cervical cancer epidemiology and prevention in Bulgaria.

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth leading cause of female cancer in Bulgaria. The objective of the study was to describe the current burden of cervical cancer in Bulgaria for a one-year period and prevention options.

METHODS

In this retrospective epidemiological study, online database from National Statistical Institute-Sofia, National Center of Public Health and Analyses-Sofia, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases-Sofia for one year were analyzed. Annual data were presented in numbers and per 100 000 of population.

RESULTS

A total of 15,759 women in Bulgaria were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2018. Morbidity is 23.5 of 100 000 population. Mortality of malignancy of the cervix in 2018 per 100 000 populations was 8.4 among women. Differences of mortality have been recorded as per statistical regions. A low immunization range has been recorded of vaccine against human papilloma virus (HPV) - 7.2% (girls 13 years of age) and 12.8% (girls 12 years of age) for first dose and 11.9% (girls 12 year of age) for second dose in 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

High morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer were registered in Bulgaria. The immunization coverage was low. The strategy for disease prevention through mandatory screening and mandatory immunizations needs to be rethought.