Epidemiology of lung cancer in China

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in China. Along with socioeconomic development, environmental problems have intensified and the burden of lung cancer continues to increase. METHODS: In this study, national cancer registry data was used for evaluating incidence, mortality, time trend, and prediction. RESULTS: In China in 2010, 605 900 patients were diagnosed and 486 600 patients died of lung cancer. Throughout the last three decades, the mortality of lung cancer has dramatically increased, as shown in national death surveys. From 2000 to 2010, age specific incidence of lung cancer increased in most age groups. It is estimated that in 2015, the total number of new cases of lung cancer will reach 733 300. CONCLUSIONS: Lung cancer is a serious disease affecting public health and an effective control strategy is needed in China.