Differences in relative survival across 19 counties in Norway
The greatest differences in relative survival between counties are found in lung cancer patients where survival in 2000-2009 varies from 9-23 per cent and in prostate cancer patients where it varies from 71-91 per cent. These interesting results are presented in a report from the Cancer Registry of Norway titled: Cancer survival by county and health region in Norway 2000-2009.
Should be examined
We find survival differences in the twelve most common cancer types from 2000-2009 in all of the counties and health regions in the country. However, no county stands out as having a generally low survival rate.
- To which degree these differences are due to geographical differences in cancer care, socioeconomic differences, or other reasons, should be examined, says Bjørn Møller, Head of Department of Registration.
Survival increasing in several cancers
Survival is increased for eight out of the twelve most common cancer types, when comparing the periods from 2000-2004 with 2005-2009. In cancer of the uterine, ovaries, malignant melanoma and urinary bladder only, the same survival rates are seen, in both periods.
Must establish clinical registries
The report indicates that there are differences in cancer survival for eleven out of the twelve most common cancers in Norway, based on where the patient lived when diagnosed.
- This report is only a superficial analysis showing county and regional differences. Therefore, in order to analyze the material in depth, we need to establish clinical registries where all types of treatment are registered, in order to see if there are differences in the quality of cancer treatment, Bjørn Møller points out.
