Title : Key indicators of esophageal cancer in Uzbekistan for the period 2000-2024
Abstract:
Differences in the geographical distributions of esophageal cancer (EC) are associated with environmental influences and genetic risk factors. The inhabitants of the Republic of Uzbekistan are at high-risk for EC, however, detailed epidemiological data regarding the dynamics of EC are not available. To address this gap in our knowledge, here we reviewed trends in the incidence of EC in Uzbekistan from 2000 through 2024. We acquired the epidemiological data for 22,135 patients with EC from the national epidemiological data base of Uzbekistan. The mean incidence (per 100,000 persons) during the study period was 2.8, which peaked at 3.9 in 2007 and decreased below 2.1 in 2022 and thereafter. The incidence was highest for patients aged 61 years to 74 years (42.0%). Among patients with EC, 17,751 (80.2%) and 4,384 (19.8%) were diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, respectively. The incidences of patients with EC with adenocarcinoma were 0.6 from 2011–2024 and 0.4 from 2000 to 2010. Despite a persistent downward trend, the majority of patients were diagnosed with stage III EC (from 64.8 in 2000 to 47.4% in 2024). During this period, the proportion of patients with stage II disease increased from 16.6% to 31.4%. This was reflected in an increase in 5-year survival from approximately 15% (2000-2011) to a plateau of approximately 25% (2012-2024). We conclude that preventing the progression of EC to stage III is required to improve the prognosis of patients with EC who reside in Uzbekistan.
Keywords: esophageal cancer, incidence, dynamics, Republic of Uzbekistan.
The information provided by us will be of interest to all specialists who are dealing with the problem of esophageal cancer. In particular, based on a multicenter study within one country, the epidemiological aspects of the development of esophageal cancer and the issues of dynamic changes in the incidence rate depending on gender and age are shown. In comparison with data from other countries, the obtained data can serve as a geographical reference point for planning further methods of anti-cancer control. The audience that has access to these indicators can use the meta-analysis of esophageal cancer incidence in Uzbekistan in further presentations as a statistically reliable and practical result. Therefore, other educators can use the results of this study to expand their research or teaching activities for training personnel. The results of this study provide a basis for a practical solution to the problem of esophageal cancer.
