Incidence, mortality and survival patterns of prostate cancer among residents in Singapore from 1968 to 2002
2008

Prostate Cancer Trends in Singapore (1968-2002)

Sample size: 3613 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Chia Sin Eng, Tan Chuen Seng, Lim Gek Hsiang, Sim Xueling, Pawitan Yudi, Reilly Marie, Mohamed Ali Safiyya, Lau Weber, Chia Kee Seng

Primary Institution: National University of Singapore

Hypothesis

What are the incidence, mortality, and survival patterns of prostate cancer among residents in Singapore from 1968 to 2002?

Conclusion

Ethnic differences in prostate cancer incidence, mortality, and survival patterns were observed, with significant improvements in survival rates for the Chinese since the 1990s.

Supporting Evidence

  • The age-standardized incidence rate of prostate cancer in Singapore increased significantly from 1968 to 2002.
  • The relative survival rates for prostate cancer showed slight improvement from 1995 onwards among the Chinese population.
  • The study found ethnic differences in prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates.

Takeaway

Prostate cancer cases in Singapore have been increasing, especially among Chinese men, and survival rates have improved over time.

Methodology

This is a retrospective population-based cohort study using data from the Singapore Cancer Registry, including all prostate cancer cases aged over 20.

Potential Biases

The study may miss unreported cancers that did not lead to death within the study period.

Limitations

Changing diagnostic accuracy and access to healthcare over time may affect the findings.

Participant Demographics

78.4% Chinese, 10.5% Malay, 7.8% Indian, and 3.3% Others; median age of diagnosis was 73.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p < 0.0005

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 18.1–19.3

Statistical Significance

p < 0.0005

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2407-8-368

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication