PANCREATIC CANCER IN THE FAR EASTERN FEDERAL DISTRICT (2015-2024)
TL;DR
By 2024, standardized morbidity and mortality rates for pancreatic cancer had increased in the Far Eastern Federal District, while the level of disease advancement at diagnosis remained high, and a substantial improvement of the situation can be facilitated by early detection of patients at the initial stages of tumor development.
Abstract
Significance. The increasing incidence and mortality rates of cancer in the Far East population in recent decades provided the rationale for studying the characteristics of pancreatic cancer in this region. Purpose. To assess incidence and mortality patterns related to pancreatic cancer in the Far Eastern Federal District in 2015 – 2024 in comparison with Russian national rates. Material and methods. Data on morbidity and mortality from oncology service official reports, processed using standard oncology statistics programs. Results. In 2024, 1,192 new cases of malignant neoplasms of the pancreas were registered in the Far Eastern Federal District, which is 58.5% higher than the 2015 figures and 7.2% higher than the 2023 figures. The average incidence rate was 8.20±0. 11о/оооо (p=0.001), with an overall increase of 9.5% in both sexes. The rise was more pronounced in women (+21.4%), while a decrease was observed in men (−3.7 %). The insufficient level of pancreatic cancer active detection - 6.2% (2015 - 6.4%) did not lead to a significant increase in the number of patients diagnosed at stages I–II in 2015-2024 (25.7%). The patient cohort accumulation index remains low at 1.2 (2015: 1.1) against the backdrop of an unfavorable first-year mortality rate of 60.0% (Russia: 65.8%). This can be explained by a high level of disease advancement – 55.6% (2015: 64.8%). The average mortality rate (2014-2023) in males was 9.90±0.21о/оооо, p=0.005, which exceeded the female one – 5.90±0. 0,10о/оооо, p=0.001. Conclusion. By 2024, standardized morbidity and mortality rates for pancreatic cancer had increased in the Far Eastern Federal District, while the level of disease advancement at diagnosis remained high. A substantial improvement of the situation can be facilitated by early detection of patients at the initial stages of tumor development. This requires strengthening oncologist staffing in primary healthcare settings and improving the management of precancerous and predisposing conditions within a well‑structured preventive examination system, prioritizing high‑risk cancer groups. Scope of Application. The data obtained can be used in the development of regional programs for medical and social support for patients with pancreatic cancer. Keywords: pancreatic cancer; incidence; mortality; Far Eastern Federal District.