Lung cancer risk in Bagmati province, Nepal- A hospital-based spatial study from 2012 to 2021

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Problem considered</h3> Lung cancer is one of the major causes of cancer incidence globally. Developing countries account for a substantial portion of the global lung cancer burden. However, most of the low and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Nepal, still lack spatial-based cancer control and prevention strategies. The study examines the prevalence and spatial distribution of lung cancer at the municipal level in Bagmati province. <h3>Methods</h3> The study utilized hospital-based lung cancer cases to analyze spatial and temporal trends. It supports the development of evidence-based cancer control strategies at the local administrative level. Furthermore, the study examined the spatial-temporal patterns of lung cancer risk at the municipal level from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2021. Our study utilized GeoDa and ArcGIS to conduct spatial analyses. Each case was cleaned and verified for permanent location and duplication, followed by confirmation of residence via Google Earth. The study followed the overall registration process, including data quality control guidelines and principles outlined by the International Association of Cancer Registries. <h3>Results</h3> The annual mean crude incidence rate of Bagmati province and Kathmandu Valley was found to be 5.16 and 5.53 per 100000 people, respectively. The temporal distribution of lung cancer risk was calculated, and it was found to be highest in 2021 in Kathmandu Valley. The crude and standardized incidence rates in this year were 6.84 and 7.81 per 100000, respectively. The crude and standardized incidence rates were high in 2019 in Bagmati Province. Kathmandu Valley has a fluctuating incidence rate; however, Bhaktapur municipality has been identified as the top position in the Bagmati province. Males consistently exhibit a higher risk, particularly in middle-aged and elderly populations. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Lung cancer has been growing as one of the major public health challenges in Bagmati province. Timely screening, cost-effective advanced technology, public awareness, easy access to cancer hospitals, and good treatment should be a government priority.