Burden of disease due to cancer in a Southern Brazilian state

Background: Despite the considerable epidemiological relevance of cancer in developing countries, there are very few studies of the burden related to cancer. The aim of this study was to present and discuss data from a burden-of-cancer study performed in a Southern Brazilian state. Methods: An epidemiological study of ecological design was performed to calculate the disability-adjusted life year (DALY) index. The study was based on records of individuals admitted and treated for cancer in the Brazilian National Health System Hospitals, or individuals who had died of cancer while residing in the state of Santa Catarina in 2008. Results: A total of 73,872.9 DALYs were estimated, which generated a rate of 1220.5 DALYs/100,000 inhabitants. The highest DALYs were those for cancer of the trachea, bronchus and lung with 179.0/100,000 inhabitants, gastric cancer with 101.7/100,000 inhabitants, and breast cancer with 99.7/100,000 inhabitants. The percentage contribution of the DALY component varied according to cancer type; however, mortality was the major component in all types. The highest rates were observed in 60–69-year-olds with 6071.3/100,000 inhabitants, in 70–79-year-olds with 5095.4/100,000 inhabitants, and in 45–59-year-olds with 3189.0 DALY/100,000 inhabitants; 53.7% of DALYs occurred in males. Conclusions: The greatest burden of disease due to cancer in Santa Catarina was attributed to cancer of the trachea, bronchus and lung, followed by gastric and breast cancers. The mortality component was responsible for the greatest burden.