Cancer incidence and mortality in Quito: information to monitor cancer control policies.

INTRODUCTION

Cancer represents a challenge for global public health, since it requires a comprehensive strategy for its control. In this context, the Population-Based Cancer Registries (PBCR) are key actors for the generation of public policies that guarantee their implementation.

OBJECTIVE

This study analyses the trend in cancer incidence and mortality rates in the city of Quito during the period 1985-2017 and discusses them within the framework of the National Strategy against cancer proposed in 2017 for Ecuador.

METHODS

Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates are established using data from the Quito PBCR. For trend analysis of selected locations, joinpoint regression and annual percentage change (APC) are used.

RESULTS

Throughout the study period, there was a sustained increase in both incidence rates (APC male= 2.0, 95% CI: 1.7-2.4; APC female= 2.0%, 95% CI: 1.4-2.6), as in mortality rates (APC male= 2.0%, 95% CI: 1.8-2.3; APC female= 1.3%, 95% CI: 1.1-1.6). Cancer incidence and mortality rates of the breast, prostate, colon-rectum, thyroid, and lymphoma increased, while the incidence rates of cervical and stomach cancer initially decreased, then stagnation was observed.

CONCLUSION

The information presented by the PBCR of Quito serves as a reference for the prognosis of cancer in the country and as a baseline for its control. Actions are urgently required to strengthen cancer prevention and promotion strategies.