LUNG CANCER INCIDENCE AND MORTALITY IN SPLIT-DALMATIA COUNTY, 2003–2012

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to analyze indicators on lung cancer (C33-C34, ICD-10) in Split-Dalmatia County in the period 2003–2012. Methods: Data on lung cancer occurrence for the period 2003–2012 were obtained from the Croatian National Cancer Registry, while mortality data were obtained from electronic database of the Teaching Public Health Institute of Split-Dalmatia County. Croatian census 2011 and population estimates of the Central Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Croatia were used to calculate the indicators. Results are presented as absolute numbers, shares (%), specific rates per 100,000 population, age-standardized rate (standard European population). Results: There were 2,804 registered patients with lung cancer in the period 2003−2012 in Split-Dalmatia County – 2,179 men (77.71%) and 625 women (22.29%); 2,737 people died from lung cancer in the same period – 2,117 men (77.35%) and 620 women (22.65%). Specific rates of incidence and mortality rates were four times higher among men than among women. From 2003 to 2012, the rate of incidence among men showed a significant decrease, while among women there were no significant changes of incidence and mortality. Conclusions: According to the indicators of incidence and mortality of lung cancer in Split-Dalmatia County, this malignant neoplasm should occupy a high place within County public health priorities measures of prevention programme, targeting risk factors responsible for their formation.