Evaluation in Terms of Annual Incidence Rate of Lung Cancer within the ULSSs of the Veneto Region (Italy) from Hospital Discharge Data (Years 1980–1982)

Abstract

The annual incidence of lung cancer in aggregated territories (ULSS and Veneto Region) was assessed by a retrospective analysis of hospital discharge data from 1980–1982. The 1982 regional age and sex-specific prevalence and incidence rates (x 100,000 inhabitants), the deaths in period and the cumulative incidence rates were determined. Also calculated were the standardized incidence ratios, distinctly for sex and a truncated age range (35–64 years) and on the total as well as the standard errors. The results obtained demonstrated that the incidence rate in the Veneto is among the highest in Italy and that there is a nonhomogeneous distribution of incidence/prevalence in the various ULSSs within the Veneto. Previously held opinions on the effects of sex and age were also confirmed. Comparison of the results with those obtained from the deaths in period showed the method used for analysis to be reasonably practical and reliable. It could provide an alternative method to the more complex and expensive system currently adopted by the Population Registries.