Trends in Cervical Cancer Incidence in Iran from ۲۰۰۳ to ۲۰۰۹

Background: Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the third in Iran. Among cancers, cervical cancer is the third leading cause of death in women. Thus, recognizing the epidemiology and trends of cervical cancer can be effective for planning and policy-making. This study aims to investigate the incidence and trends of cervical cancer in Iran due to the few studies that have addressed this issue and the unclear trend for cervical cancer in Iran.Methods: This study re-analyzed existing data from the cancer data recording system in Iran during years ۲۰۰۳ to ۲۰۰۹. We used available data from the National Cancer Registry and Center for Disease Control of the Ministry of Health, Treatment and Medical Education. Stata software (version ۱۱) was used for data analysis and the significance of the incidence trend diagram was derived with WINPEPI software.Results: Assessment of the National Cancer Registry statistics from ۲۰۰۳ to ۲۰۰۹ showed an increased trend in cervical cancer from ۲۰۰۳ to ۲۰۰۸ and a decreased trend from ۲۰۰۸ to ۲۰۰۹. During this period, there were ۴۲۷۳ cases of cervical cancer registered. From these, ۳۹۴ cases were registered in ۲۰۰۳ which peaked at ۹۰۷ cases in ۲۰۰۹. The registered cancer cases had an approximately ۳-fold increase during this period. Most provinces reported an increased trend of incidence in cervical cancer.Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the incidence of cervical cancer is increasing in Iran, especially in the central regions of the country. Therefore, considering the growing trend of cancer, we recommend early detection through screening programs, public awareness, and public training programs that particularly target high risk populations.