(Tématerületi Kiválósági Program 2021 (TKP2021-EGA-44))
The objective of our study was to map county differences in incidence and mortality
by cancers and examine their changes over time. Based on the database of National
Cancer Registry and Central Statistical Office, age-standardized incidence and mortality
rates per 100,000 person-years were calculated for each county for 15 cancer types
and 3 time periods. East-West divide was apparent in incidence and mortality of lung
cancer, with larger weight in East (Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Heves, Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok,
Békés counties). Concentration of lip and oral cavity malignancies was identified
in the northeastern periphery (Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg counties).
Breast cancer incidence was the highest in Budapest. As a conclusion, changes in cancer
incidence and mortality over time were similar to developed countries; however, values
were higher. Differences in spatial distribution follow territorial pattern of social
deprivation, which correspond to higher prevalence of health risk factors. Our study
contributes to planning of public health programs by pinpointing regional inequalities
in different cancer types.