Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality: trends from the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry across three decades

Aim: This study aims to examine trends in incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) using a state-wide registry, focusing on race, age, and rurality. Methods: From 1990 to 2019, CRC age-adjusted incidence and mortality were examined through the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry using Joinpoint Regression to model average annual percent changes (AAPC). Results: In Pennsylvania, there was a decline in incidence (AAPC -1.7) and mortality (AAPC -2.5), consistent regardless of race or cancer stage, with an inflection in the 2000s demonstrating greater rate of decrease. Conversely, patients under 50 saw rising CRC incidence (AAPC 1.8). Rural counties showed higher mortality than urban counties. Conclusion: Across Pennsylvania, the incidence and mortality rates of CRC have decreased over the past three decades, apart from patients under 50.