Prognostic Factors Associated with Lung Cancer Survival: A Population-Based Study in Southern Spain

Abstract

Purpose: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The objective was to analyze survival for lung cancer in Granada, and to identify the factors influencing survival. Methods: Data were obtained from the population-based cancer registry in Granada (Spain). All cases of newly diagnosed primary lung cancer in 2011-2012 (n=685) were included. One and two-year relative survival was estimated. Results: Of our population, 65% of the patients were over 65 years of age, and 83% were men. 74% of patients had good performance status (PS); 81% of the tumors were microscopically verified; and 81% were non-small cell lung cancer. Overall, 16% were stage I-II, whereas 57% were stage IV. Radiotherapy was administered in 28% of cases, chemotherapy in 45%, whereas 23% of patients were operated. The two-year survival rate was 18% (67% and 5% for stage I and IV). Survival was higher among women (29%), <75 years of age (21.6%), and those with good PS (23%). Microscopic verification and surgery led to higher survival rates of 23.4% and 69%, respectively. Conclusions: Since the factors affecting survival were PS, stage, and surgery, efforts should target the early diagnosis of lung cancer since this would improve treatment options and outcomes.