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Joyce F. Liu, MD, MPH
Joyce F. Liu, MD, MPH
Posted: Monday, February 24, 2025
Genetic predispositions, reproductive behaviors, health-care resources, and health awareness all may influence variations in global patterns and trends in the incidence of ovarian cancer and its subtypes, according to the results of a study published by eClinical Medicine. In a population-based analysis spanning the years 1998 to 2017, Yi-Fan Wei, of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China, and colleagues observed substantial variability in both overall ovarian cancer incidence and histologic subtypes across regions, countries, and socioeconomic strata. As a result, the researchers stressed the need for region-specific prevention and surveillance strategies to mitigate the global burden of the disease.
“This population-based analysis provided the most recent global estimations of patterns and trends in ovarian cancer incidence overall and by histological subtypes,” the investigators stated. “Given the vital role of early diagnosis and timely treatment in improving outcomes, public health education to enhance health awareness is critical, especially in areas with medium and low Human Development Index [HDI] values.”
Using data from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5 XII) and CI5plus databases, the researchers analyzed incidence patterns (2013–2017) and trends (1988–1992 to 2013–2017) of ovarian cancer and its subtypes across 65 and 40 countries, respectively. They observed marked disparities in incidence across regions and HDIs, with the highest age-standardized rates (ASRs) in Eastern and Central Europe and very high–HDI regions and the lowest in Africa, Asia, and medium-HDI regions. Despite stable trends in global ASRs of ovarian cancer, notable declines were observed in Europe, America, and Oceania, in contrast with increases in Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea.
Regarding subtypes, the investigators reported that serous carcinomas remained the most prevalent subtype globally. European countries exhibited a higher proportion of serous carcinomas, with Asian countries showing higher proportions of endometrioid and clear cell carcinomas. And although trends in subtypes remained stable, ASRs increased over time for serous carcinomas and germ cell tumors in most countries, whereas mucinous carcinomas and adenocarcinomas showed declines.
Disclosure: The study authors reported no conflicts of interest.
