Comparison of Esophageal Cancer Incidence between the Eastern Anatolia and Eastern Black Sea Regions

Abstract

OBJECTIVEIncidence of esophageal cancer varies among countries, with differences found particularly betweendeveloped and less-developed regions. The aim of the present study was to investigate differences inincidence between the Eastern Anatolia Region (EAR) and the Eastern Black Sea Region (EBSR).METHODSData were obtained from the databases of the EAR (1996-2010) and the EBSR (1999-2013). A total of 47patients from the EBSR and 135 patients from the EAR were included.RESULTSHigher incidence of esophageal cancer was found in the EAR, compared to the EBSR. In the EAR,overall survival was 20 months, median survival was 13 months, and 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rateswere 51.3%, 20.1%, and 13.4%, respectively. Following termination of treatment, overall survival was 18months in the EBSR, median survival was 12 months, and 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 52.5%,10.9%, and 6.6%, respectively.CONCLUSIONA significant difference was found between regions regarding incidence of esophageal cancer. This cancermay be prevented through public education and awareness. Programs that promote preventionmust be implemented worldwide, particularly in the EAR.