Epidemiological situation of breast cancer in Chile between 2002 and 2019

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is a highly prevalent malignant neoplasm, responsible for the highest cancer mortality rate worldwide. Objective: To describe the epidemiological situation of breast cancer in Chile in relation to hospital discharges and mortality. Methodology: A descriptive analysis was performed on hospital discharges and mortality from breast cancer in Chile between 2002 and 2019, based on data provided by the Department of Health Statistics and Information of the Ministry of Health. Results: A total of 143,356 hospital discharges for breast cancer were observed in Chile, with a slight increase in discharge rates during the study period, which were higher in the 75-79 age group and in the Metropolitan Region. With regard to mortality rates, a 10.3% decrease was observed during that period, with the greatest decrease in older age groups. Discussion: The peak in discharges has progressively shifted towards older age groups, which could be due to population ageing and improved screening strategies. The decrease in mortality rates could be attributed to the creation of public policies that promote early diagnosis, a situation comparable to that observed in more developed countries. Conclusion: Breast cancer is a pathology of epidemiological relevance at the national and international level, which is why it is important to promote early diagnosis techniques to reduce the associated morbidity and mortality.