Cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment needs in Mizoram, India: evidence from 18 years trends (2003–2020)

• Published in: The Lancet regional health. Southeast Asia 2023-10, Vol.17, p.100281-100281, Article 100281
• Main Authors: Zomawia, Eric, Zami, Zothan, Vanlallawma, Andrew, Kumar, Nachimuthu Senthil, Zothanzama, John, Tlau, Lalchhanhimi, Chhakchhuak, Lalchhandama, Pachuau, Lalawmpuii, Pautu, Jeremy L., Hmangaihzuali, Evelyn V.L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cancer incidence & mortality; Endogamous; Health care systems; Mizoram; Northeast India
• ISSN: 2772-3682; 2772-3682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100281

Despite being the second least populated state, Mizoram exhibits the highest incidence rate of cancer in India. Its inhabitants, constituting an endogamous and isolated population, have embraced their own distinct culture, way of life and dietary preferences, setting them apart from the rest of mainland India. In 2003, the Mizoram Population Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) was established under the auspices of the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), a division of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with the Department of Health & Family Welfare of the Government of Mizoram, India. Cancer incidence and mortality data were extracted from the Mizoram PBCR spanning the years 2003–2020. The Age Standardized Incidence Rate (ASIR) and Age Standardized Mortality Rate (ASMR) were computed per 100,000 individuals, utilizing Segi's World Standard Population as the benchmark. The trajectory of these changes was analysed employing the Joinpoint Regression Analysis Program, Version 4.9.1.0.13, to unveil the Annual Percent Change (APC) with a 95% Confidence Interval and a Significance test (p