Historical recovery of skin cancer mortality from 1970 to 2010 in the State of São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

Skin cancer represents 25% of malignant tumors diagnosed in Brazil. European and American studies have shown an increasing incidence of skin cancer. The skin cancer is routinely classified as: cutaneous melanoma (CM) and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). The CM is primarily responsible for mortality from skin cancer due to its invasive potential, while the NMSC are rarely the primary cause of death. In Brazil, there is few data available that allow evaluating the impact of skin cancer on public health, but the association of ethnic characteristics of the population, the tropical climate and the work activities (agriculture) suggest a significant incidence and mortality from skin cancer, especially in south-central region of the country. The aim of this study is to analyze the frequency of reported skin cancer as underlying or associated cause of death on death certificates in the State of Sao Paulo. The study will be conducted through an agreement between the Department of Dermatology (FMUSP) and the Fundação Sistema Estadual de Análise de Dados (FSeade). The database on the mortality of the State of Sao Paulo, consolidated from the information contained in the death certificates from 1970 to 2010, will be consulted. Those codes representing cutaneous neoplasms were selected in ICD 8, ICD 9 and ICD 10. Thus, these codes will be sought in the direct and associated causes of death.