Mortality and hospital discharge rates for lip, oral cavity, and oropharyngeal cancer in Chile, 2002–2023

Abstract

Introduction: Lip, oral cavity, and pharynx cancer represents a significant public health problem worldwide. In Chile, national epidemiological information is limited, and there are no specific clinical guidelines for its comprehensive management. Objective: To describe the epidemiological situation of cancer of the lip, oral cavity, and pharynx in Chile by analyzing mortality and hospital discharges according to time, place, age, and sex. Methods: A descriptive ecological study was conducted using secondary data from the Department of Health Statistics and Information (DEIS) of the Chilean Ministry of Health. Deaths occurring between 2002 and 2023 and hospital discharges between 2002 and 2021 corresponding to ICD-10 codes C00–C14 were analyzed. Crude rates, age-adjusted rates, and standardized mortality ratios were calculated, assessing their temporal, regional, and demographic variation. Result: In 2023, 304 deaths were recorded, with a crude mortality rate of 1,5 per 100.000 inhabitants. Crude mortality showed an upward trend, whereas the age-adjusted mortality rate decreased by 22,8% over the study period. Mortality was higher among men and increased significantly with age. Relevant regional differences were observed. Hospital discharges increased by 14,5% since 2002, predominating among men and older adults. Conclusion: In Chile, age-adjusted mortality from cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx has declined, while hospital discharges have increased. These findings highlight the need to strengthen prevention strategies, early detection, and the development of specific public health policies at the national level.