Socioeconomic Differences in Cancer Incidence in England
Author Information
Author(s): Shack Lorraine, Jordan Catrina, Thomson Catherine S, Mak Vivian, Møller Henrik
Primary Institution: UK Association of Cancer Registries
Hypothesis
This study aims to investigate socio-economic differences in breast, lung, cervical, and malignant melanoma cancer incidence among patients diagnosed in England during 1998–2003, by region and age.
Conclusion
National comparison of socioeconomic variations in cancer incidence by region and age can provide an unbiased basis for public health prevention and health commissioning.
Supporting Evidence
- The highest incidence rates in England occurred in the most deprived groups for both lung cancer and cervical cancer.
- Breast cancer incidence was highest in the least deprived with modest differences between socioeconomic groups.
- If all population groups had the same incidence rates as the least deprived group, we would expect 41,076 fewer lung cancer cases in men.
Takeaway
People in poorer areas are more likely to get lung and cervical cancer, while those in wealthier areas are more likely to get breast cancer and melanoma.
Methodology
Data were obtained from all eight English cancer registries for patients diagnosed between 1998 and 2003, focusing on invasive cases of specific cancers and analyzing socioeconomic variations.
Potential Biases
There may be regional variations in data collection and completeness, potentially affecting the results.
Limitations
The study relies on ecological measures of socioeconomic status, which may not represent individual patients' current or historical socioeconomic status.
Participant Demographics
Patients diagnosed with breast, lung, cervical, and malignant melanoma cancers in England from 1998 to 2003.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 2.48–2.58 for lung cancer in men
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website