Abstract:
Background: Cancer incidence is rising across Arab countries, accompanied by disproportionately high mortality-to-incidence ratios (MIRs). Variability in cancer registry completeness and epidemiological transition complicate accurate burden assessment.
Purpose: To synthesize registry-based evidence on cancer incidence, mortality, and trends in the Arab world and evaluate implications for cancer surveillance systems.
Methods: A combined scoping and systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched (2000–2024). Inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed studies using population-based cancer registry data or national datasets in Arab countries. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on incidence, mortality, cancer types, and registry performance indicators.
Results: Cancer incidence in Arab countries increased substantially over the past two decades, with estimates exceeding 450,000 new cases annually. Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women, while lung, liver, and colorectal cancers predominate among men. A consistent finding across studies is elevated MIRs compared to global averages, indicating late-stage diagnosis and gaps in early detection. An epidemiological transition is evident, with declining infection-related cancers (e.g., liver, bladder) and rising lifestyle-related cancers (e.g., colorectal, breast). Notably, earlier age at diagnosis and increasing early-onset colorectal cancer were reported. Subregional disparities persist, reflecting differences in registry coverage, healthcare access, and risk factor distribution.
Conclusions and Implications: The Arab region is undergoing a rapid cancer transition with increasing burden and persistent survival gaps. Strengthening population-based cancer registries, improving data ompleteness, and standardizing reporting are critical priorities. Enhanced screening programs and regional data harmonization are essential to reduce mortality and support evidence-based cancer control strategies aligned with international registry standards.
Keywords: Cancer epidemiology; Arab world; cancer registries; incidence; mortality; systematic review
Biography:
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