Epidemiology of common cancers in Dezful county, southwest of Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Cancers is considered as the third reason of death after cardiovascular disease and accidents. These types of disease are one of the most critical issues in health and treatment in Iran and the world. Objectives: The aim of this study was to conduct an epidemiologic investigation on types of cancers in Dezful. Patients and Methods: In this epidemiologic study, recorded data of cancers during 2006-2011 was considered. The data were gathered from all of health centers, pathobiology laboratories, and all public and private hospitals in the city of Dezful. Additionally the data of oncology and radiotherapy departments were considered. The, incidence rate in every 100 000 people had been calculated in subgroups of gender and age groups. Results: Of 2202 registered cases of cancers during 6 years in Dezful, 42.38% were female and 57.61% were male. Cancer incidence during 6 years reached to 525 (incidence of 111.68 per 100 000) in 2011 to 223 (incidence 55.4 per 100 000) in 2006. During this period, skin cancers (16.47 per 100 000) and stomach (10.88 per 100 000) had the highest incidence. The most common cancers in males and females were skin and breast cancers, respectively. Breast cancer in females had two peaks from ages 50-54 years and more than 85 years old. Conclusion: Regarding ascending order of cancer incidence in the region and also the high incidence of skin and stomach cancers, preventive modalities including individuals' personal protection of sunlight and dietary patterns modification are suggested. Additionally, individual's screening and self-examining are suggested too.