Excess Cancer Incidence and Mortality due to Deprivation

Trends in the West Midlands 1996 - 2007

The Cancer Reform Strategy (2007) highlighted the existence of large inequalities in cancer incidence and outcomes across England and noted that, although the inequalities gap between the most affluent and most deprived groups is closing, more work still needs to be done.  Cancer incidence is significantly higher in the most deprived group, and late diagnosis and poor survival remain problems for the country’s poorest people.  Reducing inequalities in cancer outcomes between the most affluent and the most deprived members of society is essential if the Health Inequalities target to close the gap in life expectancy between rich and poor is to be achieved.

This report investigates the size of the inequalities gaps for cancer incidence and mortality in the West Midlands.  Actual numbers of cases and deaths in each West Midlands PCT are compared to predicted numbers based on those recorded in the most affluent population in the West Midlands.  The total excess for all cancer sites (excluding non-melanoma skin) is analysed, and this is broken down into an excess for colorectal, upper GI, lung, breast, prostate and melanoma skin cancer.

Report:  Excess Cancer Incidence and Mortality due to Deprivation (pdf)

The pdf report provides an overview with commentary of the excess cancer incidence and mortality due to deprivation in the West Midlands.  Data are presented for each cancer site and PCT, for both incidence and mortality.  There are also sections explaining in depth the methodology used and an overview of deprivation within the West Midlands.

EAtlas:  Excess Cancer Incidence and Mortality due to Deprivation (flash player required)

The data within the report are also presented in interactive eAtlas format.  This enables the user to compare data using maps, charts which compare PCTs, and graphs showing trends over time.  Two different datasets can be presented at once.  The eAtlas is a new development for the WMCIU and is still in beta testing.  The data contained within it are correct, but we would welcome your feedback on how to make it more user-friendly and intuitive.

EAtlas Quick Guide:  Excess Cancer Incidence and Mortality due to Deprivation (pdf)

A quick guide to the main features of the eAtlas for new users.  Designed to help people get to grips with the basics quickly, this should highlight the main features of the eAtlas.