Hodgkin lymphoma in Brazil: trends in incidence and mortality over 4 decades

Abstract

Background In Brazil, there is lack of studies on the incidence and mortality of this malignancy. The aim of this study was to describe the profile of HL in Brazil for incidence, mortality and trends. Methods Data on incidence in Brazil were collected from Population-Based Cancer Registries (1988–2017) and mortality for 1979–2019. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were calculated. Average annual percent change was estimated and analyzed in two calendar periods for mortality (1979–1999 and 2000–2019). Results Trends in the incidence of HL for males in Brazil declined in two state capitals – Belo Horizonte, −3.7% (95% CI, −7.1 to −0.3); and Salvador, −8.5% (95% CI, −13.0 to −3.8) – and remained stable in other cities. For females, two capitals showed a decrease in incidence: Salvador, −9.5% (95% CI, −15.3 to −3.2) and Porto Alegre, −3.9% (95% CI, −7.0 to −0.8). Mortality rates in males were higher than those in females. However, the decrease in mortality was greater in males, −2.2% (95% CI, −2.5 to −1.8). Age incidence distribution across Brazilian capitals showed a higher incidence among younger (15–30 years) individuals yet no clear incidence among older adults (>60 years). Conclusion The incidence trend of HL in Brazil has remained stable. While the mortality rates have decreased for both sexes. Age distribution for mortality at a young age and older ages follows the bimodal pattern for Brazil as a whole. Finally, further studies are necessary to understand age incidence distribution of HL in Brazil.