Repositori URV

Identifier: TDX:1135

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1135

Authors:
Llueca Abella, Josep Antoni

Abstract:
This is a descriptive epidemiological study on ovarian cancer in Tarragona province population (305,989 women in 2001). Data of population-based incidence, mortality, survival and prevalence, were analyzed concerning 876 ovarian malignancies recorded in the Tarragona Cancer Registry, for the period 1980-2005. Histological types during the period was also investigated. A high resolution study was conducted for the period 2000-2004 including 233 patients with particular focus on diagnostic method, histological grade, staging and laterality. The methodology of population-based cancer registries has been applied, following the criteria of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in order to ensure both completeness and accuracy of data. Assessment of the standard quality indices showed that they were appropriate for this particular study on ovarian cancer. The temporal trend in incidence has been studied and its projection to 2010 and 2015 estimated. International comparisons of incidence and survival have been made. Variable factors for the period 2000-2004 have been studied in detail. The most relevant conclusions are: Ovarian cancer in Tarragona shows a westernized epidemiological pattern. Compared internationally age-adjusted rate of incidence is at an intermediate level in the international comparison with an increasing secular trend. The survival rate remained stable until 1999, improving in the last period (2000-2004), and is similar to the rest of Europe. Multivariate analysis has concluded that age, histological type and staging are independent prognostic factors for survival. This is in accordance with a majority of international reports. Three papers are in course of preparation for publication in scientific journals.