Acute lymphoblastic leukemia mortality rate trends in Chile from 2002 to 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a malignant hematological neoplasm that affects the lymphoid precursor within the hematopoiesis process. It is the most common neoplasm with high associated mortality in children and adolescents. Objective: To describe the mortality associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Chile. Methodology: Quantitative research based on data from the Department of Health Statistics and Information for the period 2002-2023. The variables included crude mortality rate, age group, region, and standardized mortality rate. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: There were 2,930 deaths from acute lymphoblastic leukemia. There was a percentage variation of -33.71% in the crude mortality rate between the two years. The 80+ age group had the highest rate (1.87 per 100,000). The highest standardized mortality ratio was recorded in the Arica and Parinacota Region, exceeding the national average by 2.1 times. Discussion: The trend can be attributed to the Explicit Health Guarantees, which since 2005 have ensured universal diagnosis and treatment of the disease. They have improved access to gold standard therapies and reduced mortality. The higher mortality in older adults could be explained by resistance to chemotherapy, lower tolerance to treatment, comorbidities, and frailty. Mortality in Arica and Parinacota could be associated with rurality, poverty, exposure to polymetals, and ethnic composition. Conclusion: Mortality from acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Chile has remained stable, with higher rates in older adults and rural regions, highlighting territorial inequalities and the need to improve equitable access to treatment.