Cancer incidence and mortality in Medellin-Colombia, 2010-2014

BACKGROUND: This study provides information on cancer incidence and mortality in a Colombian population during 2010-2014, based on the data and methodology of the Population-based Cancer Registry of Antioquia to facilitate the implementation of cancer control strategies. METHODS: This is a descriptive study of cancer incidence and mortality in a population, residing in the urban area of the municipality of Medellin. The cancers included in the study are those prioritized in the cancer control plan for Colombia (PDCC-cancers). The collection, processing and systematization of the data were performed in accordance with internationally standardized parameters for population cancer registries. Incidence and mortality rates were calculated by gender, age and tumor location. RESULTS: During 2010-2014 there were 22,379 new cancer cases recorded in the urban area of the municipality of Medellin, of which 43.5% corresponded to the PDCC-cancers. During the same period, 14,922 cancer deaths were reported, 23.5% related to the PDCC-cancers, 53.5% in women. Prostate cancer and breast cancer were the principal cause of morbidity in men and women, respectively, and lung cancer was the principal cause of death for both sexes. CONCLUSION: Cancer is a health problem for the population of Medellin. It is necessary to emphasize research and monitor risk factors, the health response and the capacity of the health provider network when facing the growing demand caused by this epidemic.