Lung cancer mortality in Brazil between 2000 and 2020: a temporal trend study

Lung cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease that profoundly impacts global public health and remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Understanding the epidemiological nature and temporal trends of lung cancer is crucial for effective management. Accordingly, this study aims to evaluate the temporal trends in lung cancer mortality in Brazil and its geographic regions between 2000 and 2020. Data on deaths due to malignant neoplasms of the bronchus and lung (ICD-10: C34) were analyzed using official data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health, alongside population statistics. Temporal and geographic patterns were assessed using age standardized mortality rates and analyzed using a segmented regression model. The national mortality rate attributed to bronchus and lung cancers remained stable, with an average annual percent change (AAPC) of 0.0 (95% CI: -0.6 to 0.6) over the study period. However, significant increases were noted among women (AAPC: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2 to 2.5) and decreases among men (AAPC: -0.9; 95% CI: -1.2 to -0.5). Regional analysis revealed heterogeneity, with declines observed in the Southeast (AAPC: -0.8; 95% CI: -1.4 to -0.2), South (AAPC: -0.8; 95% CI: -1.1 to -0.2), and Central-West (AAPC: -0.5; 95% CI: -1.1 to 0.0) regions. In contrast, increases were observed in the Northeast (AAPC: 3.2; 95% CI: 2.5 to 3.9) and North (AAPC: 0.5; 95% CI: 0.0 to 1.1) regions. The assessment of lung cancer mortality in Brazil reveals significant discrepancies between sexes and regions, highlighting the need for personalized health policies. Understanding this information can support the implementation of more effective health strategies that address the specific demands of each population group.

Corresponding author: Marcello Augusto Anchieta Santos Filho (e-mail: anchietamarcello@gmail.com).