Cumulative ultraviolet radiation exposure and chronic immunosuppression are major risk factors for keratinocyte cancers. Squamous cell carcinomas, the most frequent malignancies following solid organ transplantation, show markedly increased incidence and aggressiveness in transplant recipients. While posttransplant dermatologic surveillance is well established, pretransplant skin cancer prevention remains insufficiently addressed. This monocentric cross-sectional study (August 2023 to August 2025) assessed skin cancer and sun protection knowledge in adult transplant candidates undergoing dermatologic screening at a university hospital dermatology outpatient clinic, using the validated 25-item Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge (SCSK) Scale, supplemented by questions on immunosuppression-related risk awareness and self-perceived knowledge adequacy. Immunosuppression-naive transplant candidates constituted the primary cohort; immunosuppression-experienced transplant candidates served as reference. Descriptive and nonparametric analyses were performed. Among 154 transplant candidates (144 immunosuppression-naive and 10 immunosuppression-experienced), immunosuppression-naive (mean age: 52.2 years; 69.4% male) demonstrated significantly lower SCSK scores than immunosuppression-experienced (13.6 vs. 16.9; P = 0.018). Deficits were greatest regarding tanning behavior and prevention, while symptom recognition was poor across both groups. Only 59.0% of immunosuppression-naive transplant candidates recognized immunosuppression as major skin cancer risk factor, and 29.2% felt adequately informed. Higher knowledge was associated with personal ( P = 0.031) or family ( P < 0.001) history of skin cancer, regular screenings ( P < 0.001), and lighter Fitzpatrick skin types ( P = 0.011). Transplant candidates, particularly those without prior immunosuppression, exhibit substantial deficits in skin cancer and sun protection knowledge. The pretransplant phase represents a critical, underutilized opportunity for early, structured dermatologic education before lifelong immunosuppression and increased cancer risk.
The ABO blood group, has been investigated as a prognostic factor in esophageal, gastric and colorectal cancer, with conflicting results. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of ABO blood type on overall survival (OS). We searched PubMed and Embase from inception to February 2026 following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Two reviewers independently screened studies reporting hazard ratios for OS across ABO blood group pairwise comparisons. Summary hazard ratios (SHRs) were estimated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed via the I2 index. Study quality and publication bias were evaluated. Twenty-three studies were included, covering over 24 000 patients. For esophageal cancer, blood group A was associated with significantly lower mortality compared with group O [SHR: 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.83-0.95]. Group AB was associated with increased mortality compared with group A (SHR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.09-1.70) and group B (SHR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.00-1.59). Subgroup analyses revealed that blood group AB was associated with lower mortality in high-quality gastric cancer studies, and that blood group B was associated with significantly lower mortality compared with group A in colorectal cancer when excluding the single low-quality study (SHR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.59-0.84), consistent with the subgroup analysis restricted to Asian studies (SHR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.51-0.81). Our findings suggest that blood group A vs. O is associated with lower mortality in esophageal cancer and that blood group AB is associated with lower mortality in gastric cancer among high-quality studies. However, future studies are needed to confirm these findings.
To synthesise evidence on how smoking-related stigma influences participation in lung cancer screening, including its impact on screening uptake, intention to participate, and healthcare-seeking behaviour among people who currently smoke or formerly smoked. A rapid review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-informed methodology. Searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase without date restrictions. Eligible studies included qualitative and quantitative research involving adults eligible for, invited to, or targeted for lung cancer screening. Smoking-related stigma was conceptualised as perceived, internalised, anticipated, and structural stigma. Data were extracted and synthesised using a structured narrative approach. Forty-four studies were included. Smoking-related stigma was frequently described as a potential barrier to lung cancer screening participation, particularly in qualitative studies. Quantitative findings were more heterogeneous, with some studies reporting weak or nonsignificant associations, operating through psychological (eg, shame, guilt, and self-blame), social (eg, anticipated judgement), and structural mechanisms (eg, eligibility criteria emphasising smoking history). Stigma was associated with reduced intention to participate, avoidance of screening, and delayed healthcare-seeking. Variations appeared to be influenced by study design, population characteristics, and measurement approaches. While smoking-related stigma may be a relevant and potentially modifiable barrier to lung cancer screening participation, the current evidence remains heterogeneous. Future studies using standardised stigma measures and longitudinal designs are needed to clarify the extent to which stigma independently influences screening uptake. Addressing stigma through empathetic, nonjudgemental communication, careful framing of screening programmes and system-level interventions may improve engagement with lung cancer screening.
Improved survival among patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), has increased attention to long-term oncologic outcomes, including second primary tumors (SPTs). However, their clinical patterns and timing remain incompletely characterized. In this retrospective single-center cohort study, we analyzed 201 patients with NETs diagnosed between 2005 and 2023. SPTs were defined according to Warren-Gates criteria and classified as synchronous (≤6 months) or metachronous (>6 months). Standardized incidence ratios were calculated using national cancer registry data. Predictors of SPT occurrence were explored using regression and competing-risk models. Thirty-five patients (17.4%) developed an additional malignancy. Patients with SPTs were older at NET diagnosis (median: 65 vs. 58 years; P = 0.006), while most other clinicopathological characteristics were similar. The most frequent SPTs were colorectal (26%), genitourinary (20%), and breast cancers (11%). SPTs were synchronous (71%), whereas metachronous tumors occurred at a median of 4.9 years after NET diagnosis. Standardized incidence ratios suggested an increased occurrence of colorectal, melanoma, and breast cancers, but estimates were imprecise because of limited event numbers. Older age at NET diagnosis independently predicted SPT occurrence (odds ratio: 1.62 per SD; 95% confidence interval: 1.07-2.54; P = 0.021), while no other variable reached statistical significance. Competing-risk analysis demonstrated metachronous SPTs of approximately 5-6% at 5 years and 7.5% at 10 years. Approximately one in six patients developed an additional malignancy, most frequently detected synchronously. Diagnostic intensity during initial staging may contribute to SPT detection, while long-term risk of metachronous tumors persists. These results support individualized follow-up with attention to gastrointestinal and site-specific cancer surveillance.
The global burden of gastric cancer remains substantial. While dairy products have been hypothesized to influence gastric cancer risk, epidemiological evidence remains inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between dairy product consumption and the risk of gastric cancer. We systematically searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and other databases from inception to May 2025. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) were performed independently by two reviewers. Summary risk ratios, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using fixed- or random-effects models depending on the level of heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were conducted by study design, geographic region, and dairy product type. Publication bias was assessed via funnel plots and Egger’s test, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Thirty-four studies (eight cohort, 26 case-control) with high methodological quality (NOS scores 7–9) were included. In cohort studies, dairy consumption showed no significant association with gastric cancer risk compared with nonconsumption. Conversely, case-control studies indicated a modest risk elevation (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.02–1.26). Specific dairy products followed similar design-dependent trends. No significant publication bias was detected, and sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results. This meta-analysis suggests a positive association between dairy product consumption and gastric cancer risk in case-control studies. The findings underscore the need for further high-quality studies to clarify this relationship.
Despite increasing participation of women in medical research, their representation in senior leadership positions remains limited. This study aimed to describe career experiences, perceived barriers, and institutional challenges reported by senior women scientists working in academic medical research in Italy. A national cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured 33-item questionnaire administered to a selected cohort of senior medical researchers with an h-index greater than or equal to 60 working in universities and research institutes (TIWS-Top Italian Women Scientists). The questionnaire explored work-life balance, caregiving and maternity, gender-related obstacles, access to leadership roles, and perceptions of institutional support. Responses were analyzed descriptively. Eighty-two of 100 invited (82%) participants completed the questionnaire. Most respondents reported difficulties balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Satisfaction with gender equality and inclusivity in medical research was low, and most participants reported experiencing at least one gender-related obstacle during their careers. Underrepresentation of women in leadership and limited access to decision-making roles were frequent concerns. A substantial proportion of respondents (37%) have considered leaving academic medical research because of the challenges. This study provides descriptive insight into challenges affecting career progression and leadership among highly accomplished women in medical research. Based on self-reported perceptions within a selected cohort, the findings should not be considered broadly representative but highlight experiences related to work-life balance, leadership access, and institutional context. These results may support prevention of barriers and action on more inclusive and sustainable women leadership pathways.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are environmental and occupational risk factors for some cancers. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the risk of upper gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal and gastric cancers, among workers exposed to PAHs. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and SCOPUS through December 2024, as well as International Agency for Research on Cancer Monographs and reference lists, for cohort and nested case-control studies. Relative risks (RRs) and odds ratios were pooled using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic. Subgroup analyses were conducted by sex, region, industry type, study quality, and publication year. Duration of exposure-response was evaluated using meta-regression. Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising diverse high-exposure occupations including coke production, aluminum production, metalworking, and chimney sweeping. Overall, occupational PAH exposure was associated with an increased risk of upper gastrointestinal cancers [relative risk (RR) = 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.38]. For esophageal cancer, the pooled RR was 1.31 (95% CI: 1.05-1.63), with higher risk estimates observed in high-exposure occupations. Gastric cancer showed a modestly elevated risk (RR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.05-1.35). Meta-regression indicated a positive association between duration of exposure and esophageal cancer risk (RR per year = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06), but not for gastric cancer. No evidence of publication bias was detected ( P = 0.66 for esophageal and P = 0.33 for gastric cancer). Occupational PAH exposure is modestly associated with upper gastrointestinal cancer risk, particularly esophageal cancer. Residual confounding and other sources of bias cannot be excluded, preventing conclusions in terms of causality.
The cancer burden in India is rising due to population aging, growth, changing risk factors, and improved awareness and diagnostics. Using data from the nationally representative Million Death Study, we assessed cancer mortality trends over 2004-2013 and estimated figures for 2020. Cause-, age-, and sex-specific proportions of cancer deaths were applied to the corresponding United Nations estimates of total deaths for each year. Age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) per 100 000 were calculated, and 2020 mortality was projected using proportions from 2011 to 2013. Mortality from all cancers combined and major cancer sites remained stable or slightly declined over 2004-2013. In 2020, over 450 000 cancer deaths were estimated for both sexes at ages 30-69 years, corresponding to ASMRs of 76.5 males and 79.4 females. Leading male causes of cancer death were oral (ASMR: 22.9), colorectal (8.6), and lung (8.0) cancer; among females, oral (12.8), uterine - mainly cervical - (9.9), and colorectal (9.8) cancer were predominant. ASMRs varied markedly by region, with the highest rates observed in eastern states, rural areas, and wealthier states. Cancer remains a major cause of death in India, with notably high rates of oral, stomach, and cervical cancers. These largely preventable cancers, together with marked regional disparities, highlight substantial opportunities for cancer prevention. Reliable, nationally representative mortality data, as provided by this study, are critical for guiding cancer control policies in India. By quantifying the burden of largely preventable cancers and regional inequalities, these findings support targeted prevention, early detection, and resource allocation at both national and state levels.
Background Cancer screening is a cornerstone of cancer control in Europe yet marked disparities persist in access, implementation, and quality assurance among national or regional programs. Building on the EU Council’s 2022 recommendations and the European Union’s Beating Cancer Plan, the European Consensus Project (ECP) was established to provide harmonized, evidence-based recommendations for major cancer screening programs and to promote a shift toward risk-adapted, technology-enabled, and equitable prevention models. Methods A structured expert panel meeting was convened under the auspices of the European Cancer Prevention Organization, integrating systematic literature review and multidisciplinary discussion to formulate validated, evidence-based recommendations. For each primary cancer site (breast, lung, colo-rectum, cervix, prostate, and stomach), systematic literature reviews identified evidence on reductions in mortality, stage distribution, participation, cost-effectiveness, and organizational quality. Results The consensus reaffirmed the evidence of mortality reduction with organized breast, lung, colorectal, and cervical screening, endorsed structured risk-adapted prostate-specific antigen testing for prostate cancer, and recommended Helicobacter pylori ‘screen-and-treat’ strategies for gastric cancer in high-incidence regions. Insights into future perspectives of liquid biopsy approaches are outlined. Conclusion The ECP Consensus outlines a European roadmap for precision screening, grounded in quality assurance, individual risk stratification, artificial intelligence integration, and public health literacy. These recommendations align with the EU Mission on Cancer and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, providing a harmonized roadmap toward precision prevention and equitable implementation of screening across Europe.
Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is highly prevalent worldwide; however, its association with pancreatic cancer risk remains inconclusive, and prior evidence has included a substantial proportion of case-control studies. This retrospective cohort study used the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network to identify adults (age ≥ 40 years) with at least two serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurements between 2010 and 2023. The VDD (<20 ng/ml) and control (≥30 ng/ml) cohorts were matched in a 1:1 ratio using propensity scores. A 2-year landmark period was applied. The primary outcome was incident pancreatic cancer within 10 years. Secondary outcomes included acute and chronic pancreatitis. After matching, 316 681 patients remained in each cohort. VDD was associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer (hazard ratio: 1.53, 95% confidence interval: 1.30-1.80, P < 0.001), acute pancreatitis (hazard ratio: 2.03, P < 0.001), and chronic pancreatitis (hazard ratio: 2.28, P < 0.001). The negative control outcome (appendicitis) showed no significant difference (hazard ratio: 1.04, P = 0.252), whereas healthcare visits used to assess detection bias were lower in the VDD group (hazard ratio: 0.88, P < 0.001). Results remained consistent across all sensitivity models. No significant interaction was observed according to sex or age. Severe VDD (<10 ng/ml) demonstrated a stronger association with pancreatic cancer (hazard ratio: 2.25, P < 0.001), supporting an exposure-gradient pattern. VDD was associated with higher subsequent risks of pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis, with stronger associations at lower vitamin D levels. These observational findings require prospective confirmation.
Human papillomavirus self-sampling may improve cervical cancer screening uptake and equity in cancer prevention. This study aimed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with preference for self-sampling in opt-out (mailed directly) and opt-in (web-order) strategies. The study population included screening participants in the intervention group of a randomized study within the Estonian cervical screening target population in 2021. Preference for self-sampling over clinician sampling was studied among screening participants in opt-out (n = 5335) and opt-in (n = 4362) arms in relation to sociodemographic factors; prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using Poisson regression. More women preferred self-sampling in the opt-out than in the opt-in arm (47.6 vs. 23.0%; P < 0.001). In the opt-out arm, self-sampling preference was higher among women aged 60/65 years (multivariable prevalence ratios: 1.36, 95% CI = 1.25-1.48, P < 0.001) compared with age group 30/35 years. In the opt-in arm, self-sampling preference was lower among women aged 50/55 years (prevalence ratios: 0.68, 95% CI = 0.57-0.81, P < 0.001) and 60/65 (prevalence ratios: 0.83, 95% CI = 0.70-0.99, P = 0.036) compared with age group 30/35 years, and other native language speakers were 46% (P < 0.001) less likely to choose self-sampling compared with native Estonian speakers. Uninsured women were more likely to prefer self-sampling, regardless of strategy. The study findings support the implementation of different targeted opt-out or opt-in approaches in various sociodemographic groups in Estonia. Each country should evaluate appropriate context-specific strategies for its population subgroups.
CanRisk is a risk prediction tool used to estimate tubo-ovarian cancer risk. It is increasingly being used in clinical practice. However, guidelines regarding the use of the CanRisk tool in clinical practice are lacking. Therefore, we aim to identify recommendations for the use of CanRisk in clinical practice. First, we organized separate focus group interviews with clinical genetic healthcare providers, gynecologic-oncology healthcare providers, patients, and patient advocates to identify relevant themes and subthemes regarding the use of CanRisk. Subsequently, we followed a Research ANd Development-modified Delphi-based approach using a questionnaire round consisting of statements based on previously identified themes, followed by a consensus meeting. Statements with consensus were transferred into recommendations and sent for approval to all participants who completed the questionnaire. We identified 44 statements based on the focus group meetings. Consensus was reached on 19 statements, of which 17 were transferred to recommendations. They concerned CanRisk itself (n = 3), counseling (n = 4), indications for the use of CanRisk (n = 2), data entry into CanRisk (n = 3), decisions regarding risk-reducing surgery and CanRisk (n = 2), education (n = 1), and collaboration regarding CanRisk (n = 4). Recommendations included that clinical geneticists should use CanRisk and communicate results to the gynecologic oncologist. Furthermore, the CanRisk result should not be used as an absolute threshold for risk-reducing surgery eligibility. This research identified recommendations for the use of CanRisk in clinical practice to standardize and optimize tubo-ovarian cancer prevention. CanRisk was seen as a valuable addition to healthcare that should be used in a uniform manner.
This systematic review focuses on the screening invitation process to identify the most effective methods for increasing participation in oncological cancer screening programs. The success of cancer screening programs heavily relies on the invitation process within a structured framework. This PRISMA-P compliant systematic review focuses on randomized controlled trials conducted worldwide between 2010 and 2021, with participation rates as the primary outcome. From the 7790 initially retrieved articles, 29 underwent quality assessment using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The analysis revealed 13 studies with low risk, 11 with medium risk, and five with high risk of bias; the latter were excluded from further analysis. The review examined intervention types, control types, analysis approaches, and the effectiveness of various invitation methods. Different communication means, such as letters, text messages, phone calls, and face-to-face consultations, were evaluated along with the roles of various professionals. Specific invitation methods significantly increased participation rates, with multistep approaches using multiple communication channels proving more effective. Advanced notification techniques, interactive approaches such as phone calls and counseling sessions, and mailing fecal immunochemical test or fecal occult blood test kits directly with invitation letters demonstrated increased participation rates. In contrast, engaging general practitioners, attaching supplementary materials to invitation letters, sending reminders after the initial invitation, and applying behavioral theories showed limited impact on participation rates. The findings emphasize the importance of tailored, multistep invitation strategies incorporating various communication channels for optimal success in cancer screening programs.
Cancer patients undergoing surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy commonly develop adverse reactions including anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders, which markedly reduce quality of life. This study investigated the efficacy of palliative care for these complications and compared different intervention approaches. Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched in August 2024. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB2 tool. Pooled effect sizes (standardized mean difference, relative risk, 95% confidence interval) were calculated using Stata MP 15, Publication bias and sensitivity analysis were performed. In addition, subgroup analyses and meta-analyses were conducted to compare the effects of various palliative care intervention types on adverse reactions caused by cancer treatments. Eighteen studies with 2903 patients were included. Palliative care was significantly better than standard care in reducing depression, anxiety, pain, fatigue, delirium, malnutrition, nausea, and vomiting. Subgroup analysis indicated that combined interventions integrating pain management and hospice care achieved the best effects, and patients aged 60 years and above benefited more prominently. No significant difference was detected between groups in improving sleep disorders. Overall, palliative care effectively alleviates multiple adverse events in cancer patients undergoing antitumor treatment, with combined interventions showing superior efficacy, which offers evidence for clinical practice. More studies are required to optimize interventions for sleep disorders.
OBJECTIVE:It is often hypothesized that persons not participating in cancer screening are difficult to reach through the healthcare system. We aimed to investigate this hypothesis for non-participants in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in Germany. METHODS:Using health claims data covering ~20% of the German population, we included persons aged 59 years in 2020 who had undergone neither fecal occult blood testing nor screening colonoscopy by the age of 59 years. We assessed (preventive) healthcare contacts and utilization of (reimbursable) CRC screening counseling between the ages of 50 and 59 years. RESULTS:Among 71 575 included persons (38% female), 99% had at least one physician contact between 50 and 59 years (mean age at first contact: 50.3 years). A total of 87% of women and 80% of men utilized any other preventive measure such as the general health check-up; the latter was utilized by 71% of women and men. Counseling about CRC screening was coded in 38% of women (men: 34%). CONCLUSION:Non-participants in CRC screening in Germany are reachable through the healthcare system and the vast majority has preventive healthcare contacts. This suggests that new structures are not needed, but rather it should be investigated how existing structures could be better used for counseling about CRC screening.
Considering various confounding factors, the preventive effect of aspirin on pancreatic cancer remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the association between aspirin use and the risk of pancreatic cancer in different populations and explore possible influencing factors. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library from database inception to 31 March 2025. The primary outcome was pancreatic cancer incidence, assessed using adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and prediction intervals. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251002604). Six cohort studies were included. Pooled analysis showed aspirin use was associated with reduced pancreatic cancer risk (hazard ratio = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.72-0.88, 95% prediction interval: 0.65-0.97, P < 0.001). High heterogeneity ( I ² = 69.9%, τ ² = 0.008) resulted in low Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (evidence‑based grading system for evidence strength). Exploratory subgroup analyses suggested lower risk in diabetes patients (hazard ratio = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.52-0.68, P < 0.001), BMI less than 25 kg/m² (hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.43-0.64, P < 0.001), and nondrinkers (hazard ratio = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.51-0.65, P < 0.001). No significant association was found in women (hazard ratio = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.55-1.00, P = 0.102) or high ‑ dose aspirin users (hazard ratio = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.67-1.00, P = 0.102). Aspirin may be associated with a lower pancreatic cancer risk, but there is considerable heterogeneity. Diabetes, BMI and alcohol consumption may be potential influencing factors and sources of heterogeneity.
Exercise has emerged as a fundamental therapeutic medicine in the management of cancer and is associated with a lower risk of recurrence and increased survival. A growing body of evidence has emerged on the acute effects of a single bout of exercise as well as chronic effects in suppressing growth of different cancer cell lines. The purpose of this review was to systematically examine the acute effects of exercise-conditioned serum and determine the impact of chronic exercise-conditioned serum on cancer cells in vitro. A systematic search was undertaken in PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus (via EBSCOhost), and Web of Science from inception to July 2024. Eligible studies examining the effects of acute and chronic exercise training on cancer cells in vitro were included. Fourteen studies met the eligibility criteria (n = 423). Acute exercise-conditioned serum has inhibitory effects on different cancer cell lines in vitro, when performed at moderate to high intensity, regardless of the training mode. For the chronic effects of exercise-conditioned serum the findings were mixed with some studies showing cancer-suppressive effects, while others reported no impact. Evidence suggests that acute exercise-conditioned serum can inhibit cancer cell growth in vitro, including breast, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers. However, chronic effects are inconsistent, with some studies showing cancer-suppressive effects on breast and prostate cancer cells, while others show no change. Limitations of the studies should be considered, and additional research is necessary to determine the role of exercise prescription specifics such as mode and volume/intensity.
BACKGROUND:Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare malignancies with largely unknown etiology; the role of anthropometry and physical activity has been rarely explored. METHODS:We analyzed 2011-2019 data of an Italian, multicenter, hospital-based case-control study including 498 incident, histologically confirmed STS cases and 969 controls. Self-reported height, weight, and physical activity data were collected; hip and waist circumferences were measured in 76% of cases and 61% of controls. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using multiple-adjusted logistic regression models. RESULTS:Compared with BMI < 25 kg/m 2 , the ORs for BMI one year prior to diagnosis/interview were 1.05 (95% CI: 0.80-1.37) for 25-29.9 kg/m 2 and 1.28 (95% CI: 0.90-1.83) for ≥30 kg/m 2 . The OR was increased for BMI 25-29.9 kg/m 2 at age 30; no association emerged for BMI at age 50 years. For waist circumference, the ORs were 1.93 (95% CI: 1.38-2.70) for >102 cm in males or >88 cm in females, and 3.54 (95% CI: 2.40-5.22) for the highest versus the lowest tertile. For waist-to-hip ratio, the ORs were 1.18 (95% CI: 0.81-1.71) for the intermediate, and 2.81 (95% CI: 1.95-4.03) for the highest tertile. Subjects reporting ≥5 h/week of total or intermediate/high intensity leisure-time physical activity at age 30-39 years had ORs of 0.63 (95% CI: 0.40-1.00) and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.32-1.00), respectively. CONCLUSION:These findings show a positive association between abdominal adiposity and STS risk, and an inverse association with regular leisure-time physical activity.
INTRODUCTION:We estimated cancer mortality figures for 2026 in five major Asian countries and Australia, with a specific focus on prostate cancer. METHODS:We computed country- and sex-specific annual age-standardized mortality rates (ASRs) for all cancers combined and for the 10 most common cancer sites, using data from the WHO and the United Nations Population Division up to 2022 or the most recent available year. We predicted figures for 2026 and estimated the number of avoided cancer deaths in 1994-2026. RESULTS:Predicted mortality rates for all cancers combined in 2026 are favourable across all considered countries and in both sexes, with the largest declines expected in the Republic of Korea (-20.5% in males and -10.2% in females compared with 2020-2022). In 2026, the lowest predicted male rate is expected in the Philippines (72.1 per 100 000), and the highest one in Australia (92.3 per 100 000). Among females, the lowest predicted ASR (42.2 per 100 000) is in the Republic of Korea, whereas the highest one (74.1 per 100 000) in the Philippines. Trends are generally favourable for lung, stomach, colorectum, and other major neoplasms considered, except pancreas. Predicted prostate cancer mortality is favourable in all countries and across all age groups. Rates are expected to remain low in Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, with ASRs below 4 per 100 000 males. Since the 1993 observed peak rate, an estimated 132 000 total cancer deaths were avoided in Hong Kong SAR, 75 000 in Israel, 1 366 000 in Japan, 720 000 in the Republic of Korea, 328 000 in Australia, and 102 000 among men in the Philippines. CONCLUSIONS:Declining cancer mortality is predicted in the countries considered. These trends largely reflect smoking cessation along with improvements in prevention, early detection, and treatment. However, substantial geographic disparities persist, highlighting the need for strengthened cancer control strategies, particularly in ageing populations.
