Temporal trends in breast cancer mortality in China, 2004–2021: an analysis of nationwide surveys on cause of death

Based on national mortality surveillance data (2004–2021), this study analyzed breast cancer mortality trends in China using Joinpoint regression. Among 110,224 recorded deaths, female crude mortality (7.26/10⁵) far exceeded male (0.14/10⁵), with significant urban-rural disparities. Age-standardized rates highlighted a widened gender gap (female ASMR: 8.10/10⁵; male: 0.17/10⁵). Female crude mortality rose steadily (AAPC = 2.21%, p < 0.001). Rural crude mortality grew faster than urban (AAPC = 3.19% vs. 1.09%). Although male ASMR showed a positive whole-period AAPC (7.78%, P < 0.001), Joinpoint analysis revealed an early increase followed by a significant decline after 2010. Male breast cancer represents a rare and often overlooked disease affecting a small patient population, necessitating targeted prevention and control strategies tailored to this specific group. In rural areas, the mortality burden is more pronounced, largely due to limited access to healthcare and related structural barriers.