Colorectal cancer mortality trend analysis in Montenegro from 1990 to 2018

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Europe. This study aimed to investigate CRC mortality trends in Montenegro from 1990 to 2018 and critically review the impact of preventive activities on cancer suppression in this country. We used the national CRC mortality data categorized by sex and age. Mortality rates were age-standardized according to the World Standard Population. The trends were described using regression techniques. In the period from 1990 to 2018, there was a significant increase in CRC mortality (P < .05). The death rates and the number of deaths from CRC were constantly increasing for both the overall level and gender, with the mean annual percentage change for the rates respectively average annual percent change (95% confidence interval—CI): 2.6% (1.9–3.2), 2.6% (1.8–3.5); 2.3% (1.3–3.3), and for the number of cases, respectively: 4.2% (3.5–4.9), 4.3% (3.3–5.3), 4.3% (3.2–5.5). The most affected age groups were 65 to 74 years (33%), followed by those aged 75 to 84 years (25%) and the age group 55 to 64 (22%). In Montenegro, CRC mortality trends are increasing among both men and women over the age of 45. Additional research on the risk factors and mechanisms that contribute to the unfavorable trends in CRC mortality in Montenegro is necessary.