Five-year prevalence of breast cancer among women in Belgrade

Abstract Background Breast cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality from malignant diseases in the female population worldwide, including Belgrade (Serbia). This study presents the five-year prevalence of female patients diagnosed with breast cancer from 2018 to 2022. Methods The cancer registry at the City Institute of Public Health (CIPH) Belgrade collects data on individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, which is recognized as a significant public health issue. Anonymous data on breast cancer from the CIPH Belgrade cancer registry were analyzed over five years (2018-2022). The breast cancer prevalence per 100,000 females was presented according to five-year age groups and municipality of residence. Results The number of women residing in Belgrade who were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2018 and 2022 was 3,441, which equates to 387.3 cases per 100,000 women. The highest number of cases was recorded in the age group of 65-69, with 544 patients (15.8% of the total cases, or 852.6 per 100,000. Among women of reproductive age (15-49), the prevalence rate was 229.7 per 100,000 women. The highest prevalence rates were found in urban municipalities: Savski Venac at 736.2 per 100,000, Stari Grad at 605.8 per 100,000, and Vračar at 512 per 100,000. Conclusions The study highlighted that the prevalence rate of breast cancer was 229.7 per 100,000 women of reproductive age, indicating a need for stronger promotion of prevention and early detection. The highest prevalence rates in urban municipalities reflect the accessibility of healthcare, age structure, and density characteristics of the female population in those areas. Key messages • Accurate reporting and data collection on breast cancer cases are essential for understanding the disease's impact on the population. • Early detection and regular screenings may influence the higher prevalence rate in urban areas compared to rural areas.