The number of malignant neoplasm in Sarajevo region during the period 1998-2002.

UNLABELLED Due to the specific war and post-war situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina it is possible to notice some differences in the number, type, advancement, biological course, treatment and its outcome. The actual situation which appeared in connection to depleted uranium has additionally raised questions about its influence on human health and about eventual increase in the number of malignant diseases in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In public, we often see that there are claims about enormous increase in the incidence of cancer. In order to achieve a realistic picture of actual condition and to avoid panic and ignorant attitude, correct and constant data of malignant tumors are necessary. THE AIM OF THE STUDY To collect and analyze data on population with malignant tumors in the region of Sarajevo city, which represents a symbol of difficult times in our country in the recent past. MATERIAL AND METHODS We have collected and analysed data on, population with malignant tumors which included persons with permanent residence in Sarajevo Canton during 5-year period, from 01.01.1998, until 31.12.2002. Results were compared to regional and world indicators, and were observed in the light of specific local situation. RESULTS During period of 5 years (1998-2002) 7733 new cases of malignant tumors were registered in Sarajevo Canton; 3940 among men and 3809 among women. Mostly registered tumors were: lung cancer, amelanotic skin tumors, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical and uterine cancer, urinary bladder cancer, prostate cancer and cancer of larynx. CONCLUSIONS Number of all malignant tumors in the region of Sarajevo Canton correlates to those in South European countries and the one estimated by GLOBCAN 2000. High number was registered in 1998, possibly due to normalization of the health services (diagnostics and treatment of malignant tumors), which didn't exist during the war and early post-war period. After 2000, there is a gradual increase in the number of people with malignant tumors. The most common tumors are lung and breast cancer. Significant differences to estimation and data registrated in other South European counties is high number of laryngeal cancer, urinary bladder cancer, bone and cartilage sarcoma, brain tumors and malignant lymphomas among both genders. Cervical cancer is extremely high up on the list, which correlates with data in developing countries. The incidence of smoking in Bosnia and Herzegovina is extremely high, almost complete, which can influence not only the appearance of lung cancer but also laryngeal and urinary bladder cancer. It is hard to say whether the war and post-war stress, irregular and insufficient nutrition during and after the siege of the city or some other factor have influenced their appearance among exposed population and differences in the observed incidence.