RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF ESOPHAGEAL CANCER MORTALITY IN BRAZIL (1998-2022): Gender disparities, ethnic contrasts, temporal dynamics, and regional variations

Abstract

Introduction: The esophageal cancer is derived from numerous dysplastic mutations usually located in the most distal portion of the esophagus, and is an aggressive neoplasm with a low survival rate. Environmental factors and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are the main precursors of this pathology, and its risk factors include males aged over 50, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption. Its diagnosis can be made through upper digestive endoscopy (UDE). Methodology: Data was collected from the Mortality Information System (SIM) from 1998 to 2022 in order to analyse the evolution of esophageal cancer mortality and compare demographic, temporal and regional trends in esophageal malignant neoplasm mortality in Brazil. Results and discussion: There has been an increase in mortality over time, with a predominance of Caucasians and males in all races. The southeast and south regions have the highest incidence and mortality rates. The disparity between the sexes is attributed to men's greater exposure to smoking and alcohol. In the South, the consumption of mate is highlighted as a significant risk factor, and its higher incidence in white people is explained by the high proportion of elderly people in this region, as esophageal cancer is more common in the elderly due to prolonged exposure to carcinogens. Conclusion: The scientific analysis carried out provides mortality trends in Brazil with regard to esophageal cancer and allows these data to be correlated with the ethnic groups, sexes and regions most affected. Finally, the study highlights the importance of environmental factors in causing this pathology, indicating public health interventions mainly in the South and Southeast regions in order to reduce mortality figures.