Are reported increases in incidence of primary CNS tumours real? An analysis of longitudinal trends in England, 1979–2003

Cancers of the brain and central nervous system: global patterns and trends in incidence

BACKGROUND

Global comparisons of the burden and impact of cancers of the brain and central nervous system (CNS) are critical for developing effective control strategies and generating etiological hypotheses to drive future research.

METHODS

National incidence estimates were obtained from GLOBOCAN 2022, and recorded incidence data from the Cancer in Five Continents series, both developed and compiled by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. We examined the estimated age-standardized incidence rates in 185 countries, as well as time trends in recorded incidence in 35 countries, quantifying the direction and change in the magnitude of the rates using the estimated average percentage change (EAPC).

RESULTS

In 2022, 322,000 new cases of brain and CNS tumors were estimated globally. By world region, the highest incidence rate was seen in Northern America (5.46 per 100,000), Eastern Asia (3.95), and Western Europe (5.56). Africa had relatively lower incidence rates. By country and age group, Austria and the U.S. exhibited the highest rates in boys (3.5 in both), while in adolescents and young adults (AYA), Norway had the highest incidence rates in both males (4.7) and females (3.8). Among adults (+ 40yo), the highest rates in males were observed in the Northern European countries of Norway (18.6), Lithuania (18.4), and Latvia (16.7). In terms of time trends, incidence rates tended to be rather stable in most world regions over the last decade, though increases were observed in selected countries. Trends-based predictions indicate that if incidence rates remain stable, population ageing and growth would mean there would be 474,000 new cases by the year 2045, a 47% increase from 2022.

CONCLUSION

While the increased incidence rates in certain populations require further study, the future predictions based on stable rates to 2045 are of particular concern, with a close to 50% increase in the number of brain and CNS cancer patients expected over the coming decades. A global 2% decline in rates would be needed to ensure the future brain and CNS cancer burden does not exceed present levels.

Temporal trends in the incidence of malignant and nonmalignant primary brain and central nervous system tumors by the method of diagnosis in England, 1993-2017

BACKGROUND

Several studies report increases in the incidences of primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors. The reasons for this are unclear.

METHODS

Data on all 188 340 individuals diagnosed with a primary CNS tumor in England (1993-2017) were obtained from the National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service. Data on all computerized tomography (CT) head and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scans in England (2013-2017) were obtained from the National Health Service Digital. Age-sex-standardized annual incidence rates per 100 000 population (ASR) were calculated by calendar year, tumor behavior, tumor location, and method of diagnosis. Temporal trends were quantified using average annual percent change (AAPC).

RESULTS

The ASR for all CNS tumors increased from 13.0 in 1993 to 18.6 in 2017 (AAPC: +1.5%, 95% CI: 1.3, 1.7). The ASR for malignant tumors (52% overall) remained stable (AAPC: +0.5%, 95% CI: -0.2, 1.3), while benign tumors (37% overall) increased (AAPC: +2.6%, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.0). Among the 66% of benign tumors that were microscopically confirmed, the ASR increased modestly (AAPC: +1.3%, 95% CI: 0.5, 2.1). However, among the 25% of benign tumors that were radiographically confirmed, the ASR increased substantially (AAPC: 10.2%, 95% CI: 7.9, 12.5), principally driven by large increases in those who are aged 65+ years. The rate of CT head scans in Accident & Emergency (A&E) increased during 2013-2017, with especially large increases in 65-84 and 85+-year-olds (AAPCs: +18.4% and +22.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Increases in CNS tumor incidence in England are largely attributable to the greater detection of benign tumors. This could be the result of the increasing use of neuroimaging, particularly CT head scans in A&E in people who are aged 65+ years.

Effects of pulse parameters on the temperature distribution of a human head exposed to the electromagnetic pulse

The presence of blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle to effectively deliver therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS); hence, the outcomes following treatment of CNS diseases remain unsatisfactory. Fortunately, electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) provide a non-invasive method to locally open the BBB. To obtain the optimal pulse parameters of EMP-induced BBB opening to ensure the effective delivery of CNS drugs, it is particularly important to measure and assess the effects of pulse parameters on the temperature distribution in the human head exposed to EMPs. In this paper, the specific anthropomorphic mannequin phantom was adopted and the temperature increase in the human head induced by EMPs of different parameters was estimated in the software “COMSOL Multiphysics”. The results show that the temperature distribution profiles with different EMP parameters have almost similar characteristics, the highest temperature increase values in the human head are positively correlated with variations of EMP parameters, and potential hazards to the human head may occur when EMP parameters exceed the safety threshold, which will provide theoretical basis for seeking the optimal EMP parameters to open the BBB to the greatest extent within a safe range.

Numerical simulation and analysis of effects of individual differences on the field distribution in the human brain with electromagnetic pulses

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) opening induced by electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) may be a drug delivery strategy of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the mechanism of EMP-induced BBB opening is still ambiguous. Previous studies have shown the relation between the external field and the extent of BBB permeation (referred to as the effect), while the connection between the internal field and the effect remains unknown. Here, the influence of individual differences on the field distribution in the human brain with EMPs is investigated, the dielectric parameters of the specific anthropomorphic mannequin (SAM) and structural parameters of the spherical brain are adjusted, and the field distribution in the brain illuminated by EMPs at the frequency range of 0-0.5 GHz is simulated based on the Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Studio Suite. The results show that the average electric field in the brain is about 1/100-1/5 of the incident field within the studied frequency range, individual differences have little effect on the field distribution in the human brain; and thus, it is reliable to establish the connection between the internal field and the effect, which is of great theoretical significance for further study of the mechanism of an EMP on the brain.

Might changes in diagnostic practice explain increasing incidence of brain and central nervous system tumors? A population-based study in Wales (United Kingdom) and the United States

BACKGROUND

Increasing incidence of central nervous system (CNS) tumors has been noted in some populations. However, the influence of changing surgical and imaging practices has not been consistently accounted for.

METHODS

We evaluated average annual percentage change (AAPC) in age- and gender-stratified incidence of CNS tumors by tumor subtypes and histological confirmation in Wales, United Kingdom (1997-2015) and the United States (2004-2015) using joinpoint regression.

FINDINGS

In Wales, the incidence of histologically confirmed CNS tumors increased more than all CNS tumors (AAPC 3.62% vs 1.63%), indicating an increasing proportion undergoing surgery. Grade II and III glioma incidence declined significantly (AAPC -3.09% and -1.85%, respectively) but remained stable for those with histological confirmation. Grade IV glioma incidence increased overall (AAPC 3.99%), more markedly for those with histological confirmation (AAPC 5.36%), suggesting reduced glioma subtype misclassification due to increased surgery. In the United States, the incidence of CNS tumors increased overall but was stable for histologically confirmed tumors (AAPC 1.86% vs 0.09%) indicating an increase in patients diagnosed without surgery. An increase in grade IV gliomas (AAPC 0.28%) and a decline in grade II gliomas (AAPC -3.41%) were accompanied by similar changes in those with histological confirmation, indicating the overall trends in glioma subtypes were unlikely to be caused by changing diagnostic and clinical management.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in clinical practice have influenced the incidence of CNS tumors in the United Kingdom and the United States. These should be considered when evaluating trends and in epidemiological studies of putative risk factors for CNS tumors.

Construction of the National Brain Tumor Registry of China for better management and more efficient use of data: a protocol

INTRODUCTION

Brain tumours encompass a complex group of intracranial tumours that mostly affect young adults and children, with a high incidence rate and poor prognosis. It remains impossible to systematically collect data on patients with brain tumours in China and difficult to perform in-depth analysis on the status of brain tumours, medical outcomes or other important medical issues through a multicentre clinical study. This study describes the first nation-wide data platform including the entire spectrum of brain tumour entities, which will allow better management and more efficient application of patient data in China.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The National Brain Tumor Registry of China (NBTRC) is a registry of real-word clinical data on brain tumours. It is established and managed by the China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases and administered by its scientific and executive committees. The 54 participating hospitals of the NBTRC are located in 27 provinces/municipalities, performing more than 40 000 brain tumour surgeries per year. The data consist of in-hospital medical records, images and follow-up information after discharge. Data can be uploaded in three ways: the web portal, remote physical servers and offline software. The data quality control scheme is seven-dimensional. Each participating hospital could focus on a single pathology subtype and public subtypes of brain tumour for which they expect to conduct related multicentre clinical research. The standardised workflow to conduct clinical research is based on the benefit-sharing mechanism. Data collection will be conducted continuously from 1 February 2019 to 31 January 2024.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Consent for the adolescents' participation will be also obtained from their guardians via written consent. The results will be published in professional journals, in both Chinese and English.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900021096).

An epidemiology report for primary central nervous system tumors in adolescents and young adults: a nationwide population-based study in France, 2008-2013

BACKGROUND

Primary central nervous system tumors (PCNST) among adolescents and young adults (AYA, 15-39 y) have rarely been reported. We present a nationwide report of PCNST histologically confirmed in the French AYA population between 2008 and 2013.

METHODS

Patients were identified through the French Brain Tumor Database (FBTDB), a national dataset that includes prospectively all histologically confirmed cases of PCNST in France. Patients aged 15 to 39 years with histologically confirmed PCNST diagnosed between 2008 and 2013 were included. For each of the 143 histological subtypes of PCNST, crude rates, sex, surgery, and age distribution were provided. To enable international comparisons, age-standardized incidence rates were adjusted to the world-standard, European, and USA populations.

RESULTS

For 6 years, 9661 PCNST (males/females: 4701/4960) were histologically confirmed in the French AYA population. The overall crude rate was 8.15 per 100 000 person-years. Overall, age-standardized incidence rates were (per 100 000 person-years, population of reference: world/Europe/USA): 7.64/8.07/8.21, respectively. Among patients aged 15-24 years, the crude rate was 5.13 per 100 000. Among patients aged 25-39 years, the crude rate was 10.10 per 100 000. Age-standardized incidence rates were reported for each of the 143 histological subtypes. Moreover, for each histological subtype, data were detailed by sex, age, type of surgery (surgical resection or biopsy), and cryopreserved samples.

CONCLUSION

These data represent an exhaustive report of all histologically confirmed cases of PCNST with their frequency and distribution in the French AYA population in 2008-2013. For the first time in this age group, complete histological subtypes and rare tumor identification are detailed.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors of perioperative outcomes in elderly patients with intracranial tumors

We aimed to study the clinical and radiological characteristics of intracranial tumors and explore the possible predictive value of these characteristics in relation to perioperative outcomes in elderly patients. We retrospectively identified 1535 elderly patients (aged 65 years and older) with intracranial tumors who underwent surgical resection between 2014 and 2018 in Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Factors associated with an increased risk of unfavorable perioperative performance and complications were investigated. Meningiomas were the most common tumors in the cohort (43.26%). The overall risk of perioperative death was 0.59%, and 42.80% of patients were discharged with unfavorable performance (Karnofsky Performance Scale [KPS] score ≤ 70). Of all patients, 39.22% had one or more complications after surgical resection. Aggressive surgery significantly lowered the rate of unfavorable perioperative outcomes (P = 0.000) with no increase in postoperative complications (P = 0.153), but it failed to be an independent predictor for perioperative outcomes in the multivariate analysis. Low performance status at admission (KPS ≤ 70) was independently associated with both unfavorable perioperative performance (P = 0.000) and complications (P = 0.000). In addition to the histopathological patterns of tumors, low performance status at admission is an independent predictor for both unfavorable perioperative performance and the occurrence of complications in elderly patients with intracranial tumors who have undergone surgical resections. However, age is not associated with perioperative outcomes in elderly patients.

Trends in the Management Paradigms of Intracranial Meningioma

Objective  Intracranial meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumor. Treatment paradigms have evolved over time. There are limited number of population-based studies that examine this modern evolution. Here, we describe the trends of management of intracranial meningiomas using a national database. Methods  The data were obtained from the National Cancer Database for the years 2004 to 2015, the collected variables included: patients' age, gender, insurance type, income, comorbidity score, the tumor size and grade, and treatment modality (observation, surgery, radiotherapy, or combination therapy). We performed statistical analyses to detect association between unique variables and outcomes. In addition, we performed mortality analyses for various treatment modalities. Results  A total of 199,096 patients with a diagnosis of intracranial meningioma were included, the majority of patients were white females, mean age of 61 years, and half of the tumors were ≤ 3 cm. Observation was the most commonly used management modality followed by surgical resection, radiotherapy, and combination therapy. For the entire time period, there was an increased use of observation as a primary management method. Predictors of mortality included increased age, larger tumor size, higher tumor grade, treatment at a community hospital, and higher comorbidity scores. Conclusion  Population-based studies of intracranial meningiomas are uncommon; our study is one of the few reports that examine the changes in the modern management paradigms of meningioma in the United States over time. Additionally, we shed light on the factors that affected survival of patients with this condition.

Trends in intracranial meningioma incidence in the United States, 2004-2015

BACKGROUND

Meningioma incidence was reported to have risen substantially in the United States during the first decade of the 21st century. There are few reports about subsequent incidence trends. This study provides updated data to investigate trends in meningioma incidence by demographic and tumor characteristics at diagnosis in the United states from 2004 to 2015.

METHODS

Trends in meningioma incidence were analyzed using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-18 (SEER-18) registry database of the National Cancer Institute. The joinpoint program was used to calculate annual percent change (APC) in incidence rates.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of meningioma increased by 4.6% (95% CI, 3.4-5.9) annually in 2004-2009, but remained stable from 2009 to 2015 (APC, 0; 95% CI, -0.8 to 0.8). Females (10.66 per 100 000 person-years) and blacks (9.52 per 100 000 person-years) had significant predominance in meningioma incidence. Incidence in many subgroups increased significantly up to 2009 and then remained stable until 2015. However, meningioma incidence in young and middle-aged people increased significantly throughout the entire time period from 2004 to 2015 (APC: 3.6% for <20-year-olds; 2.5% for 20-39-year-olds; 1.8% for 40-59-year-olds). The incidence of WHO II meningioma increased during 2011-2015 (APC = 5.4%), while the incidence of WHO III meningioma decreased during 2004-2015 (APC = -5.6%).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the incidence of meningioma was found to be stable in recent years. Possible reasons for this finding include changes in population characteristics, the widespread use of diagnostic techniques, and changes in tumor classification and risk factors in the US population.

Incidence trends of adult malignant brain tumors in Finland, 1990-2016

Background: Several studies have reported increased incidence trends of malignant gliomas in the late 1900s with a plateau in the 2000s, but also some recent increases have been reported. The purpose of our study was to analyze incidence trends of malignant gliomas in Finland by morphology and tumor location. Material and methods: Data on 4730 malignant glioma patients were obtained from case notifications to the nationwide, population-based Finnish Cancer Registry (FCR), and less detailed data on 3590 patients up to 2016. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) and average annual percent changes (APCs) in the incidence rates were calculated by histological subtype and tumor location. Results: The incidence rate of gliomas was 7.7/100,000 in 1990-2006 and 7.3 in 2007-2016. The incidence of all gliomas combined was stable during both study periods, with no departure from linearity. In an analysis by age group, increasing incidence was found only for ages 80 years and older (1990-2006). During both study periods, incidence rates were increasing in glioblastoma and decreasing in unspecified brain tumors. In 1990-2006, rates were also increasing for anaplastic oligodendroglioma, oligoastrocytoma and unspecified malignant glioma, while decreasing for astrocytoma. As for tumor location, incidence in 1990-2006 was increasing for frontal lobe and brainstem tumors, as well as those with an unspecified location, but decreasing for the parietal lobes, cerebrum and ventricles. Conclusions: No increasing incidence trend was observed for malignant gliomas overall. An increasing incidence trend of malignant gliomas was found in the oldest age group during 1990-2006.

Epidemiology and Molecular Epidemiology

Incidence, prevalence, and survival for diffuse low-grade gliomas and diffuse anaplastic gliomas (including grade II and grade III astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas) varies by histologic type, age at diagnosis, sex, and race/ethnicity. Significant progress has been made in identifying potential risk factors for glioma, although more research is warranted. The strongest risk factors that have been identified thus far include allergies/atopic disease, ionizing radiation, and heritable genetic factors. Further analysis of large, multicenter epidemiologic studies, and well-annotated "omic" datasets, can potentially lead to further understanding of the relationship between gene and environment in the process of brain tumor development.

Association of migraines with brain tumors: a nationwide population-based study

BACKGROUND

Several studies examined headaches as a symptom of brain neoplasms. Nevertheless, very few studies attempted to specifically evaluate the role of headaches as a risk factor. This study aimed to investigate the risk of migraine occurrence in the preceding years among patients diagnosed with brain tumors and unaffected controls.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. In total, 11,325 adults with a first-time brain tumor diagnosis were included as cases, together with 11,325 unaffected matched controls. Each individual was traced in the healthcare claims dataset for a prior diagnosis of migraines. Conditional logistic regressions were performed to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) to present the association between brain tumors and having previously been diagnosed with migraines.

RESULTS

We found that among patients with and those without brain tumors, 554 (4.89%) and 235 (2.08%) individuals, respectively, were identified as having a prior migraine diagnosis. Compared to unaffected controls, patients with brain tumors experienced an independent 2.45-fold increased risk of having a prior migraine diagnosis. The risks were even higher among men (odds ratio (OR) = 3.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.29~ 4.04) and after patients who had received a prior migraine diagnosis within 3 years were excluded (OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.59~ 2.29).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report demonstrating the occurrence of brain tumors to be associated with a prior migraine history, for both men and women, in a population-based study.

Increasing incidence of central nervous system (CNS) tumors (2000-2012): findings from a population based registry in Gironde (France)

BACKGROUND

Although some countries have observed a stabilization in the incidence of CNS, an increasing incidence has been reported from multiple studies. Recent observations point out to the heterogeneity of incidence trends according to histological subtypes, gender and age-groups. Using a high-quality regional CNS tumor registry, this article describes the trends of CNS tumor incidence for main histological subtypes, including benign and malignant tumors, in the French department of Gironde from 2000 to 2012.

METHODS

Crude and age-standardized incidence rates were calculated globally, by histological subtypes, malignant status, gender and age groups. For trends, annual percent changes (APC) were obtained from a piecewise log-linear model.

RESULTS

A total of 3515 CNS tumors was registered during the period. The incidence of overall CNS tumors was 19/100000 person-years (8.3/100000 for neuroepithelial tumors and 7.3/100000 for meningeal tumors). An increased incidence of overall CNS tumors was observed from 2000 to 2012 (APC = + 2.7%; 95%-confidence interval (CI): 1.8-3.7). This trend was mainly explained by an increase in the incidence of meningiomas over the period (APC = + 5.4%, 95%-CI: 3.8-7.0). The increased incidence rate of CNS tumors was more pronounced in female and in older patients even though the incidence rate increased in all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Part of the temporal variation may be attributed to improvement in registration, diagnosis and clinical practices but also to changes in potential risk factors. Thus, etiological studies on CNS tumors are needed to clarify this rising trend.

Glioblastoma in Patients over 70 Years of Age

Background

Glioblastoma has in last 20 years seen the steady increase of incidence, which is most prominent in the group of older patients. These older than 70 years have significantly poorer prognosis than other patients and are considered a distinct group of glioblastoma patients. Modified prognostic factors are being used in these patients and this information is lately supplemented with the genetic and epigenetic information on tumour. The therapy is now often tailored accordingly. The aim of our study was to analyse the current treatment of the glioblastoma patients over 70 years of age to determine the impact of clinical prognostic factors.

Patients and methods

Among patients treated at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana between 1997 and 2015, we found that 207 were older than 70 years. We analysed their survival, clinical prognostic factors (age, performance status) treatment modalities (extent of surgery, radiation dose, chemotherapy).

Results

Median survival of patients older than 70 years was 5.3 months which was statistically significant inferior to the survival of younger patients (p < 0.001). The clinical prognostic factors that influenced survival the most were performance status (p < 0.001), extent of surgical resection (p < 0.001), addition of temozolomide (p < 0.001) and addition of radiotherapy (p = 0.006). Patients receiving concomitant radiochemotherapy with temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide, had same median survival as patients receiving adjuvant temozolomide after completion of radiotherapy.

Conclusions

The increase of the number of older patients with glioblastoma corresponds to the increase in the life expectancy but in Slovenia also to the increased availability of diagnostic procedures. Clinical prognostic markers are helpful in decision on the aggressiveness of treatment. Radiotherapy and temozolomide have the biggest impact on survival, but the radiotherapy dose seems to be of secondary importance. In selected patients, chemotherapy alone might be sufficient to achieve an optimal effect. Patients that were fitter, had more aggressive surgery, and received temozolomide fared the best. The scheduling of the temozolomide seems to have limited impact on survival as in our study, there was no difference weather patients received temozolomide concomitant with radiotherapy or after the radiotherapy. Thus far, our findings corroborate the usefulness of recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) classes in clinical decisions.

Subependymomas Are Low-Grade Heterogeneous Glial Neoplasms Defined by Subventricular Zone Lineage Markers

OBJECTIVE

Subependymomas are infrequent, low-grade gliomas associated with the ventricular system and the spinal cord. Little is known about the origin and natural history of these slow-growing lesions.

METHODS

We identified all patients with pathologically proven subependymomas presenting to our institution between 1998 and 2016. We retrospectively reviewed clinical, radiographic, histologic, and surgical outcomes data in all patients who underwent surgical resection. Immunohistochemical analyses for cell lineage markers were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients with pathologically proven subependymomas were identified. Of these, 7 asymptomatic lesions were discovered at autopsy and 24 symptomatic cases were treated surgically. There were 15 (48%) lateral ventricle tumors, 11 (35%) fourth ventricular tumors, and 5 (17%) spinal tumors. Symptomatic intracranial lesions most commonly presented with headaches and balance and gait abnormalities. Subependymomas had no distinguishing radiographic features that provided definitive preoperative diagnosis. At last follow-up, no patient treated surgically experienced recurrence. Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated a diffusely GFAP-positive glial neoplasm with mixed populations of cells that were variably positive for Olig2, NHERF1, Sox2, and CD44. The Ki67 proliferation index was generally low (<1% in many of the tumors).

CONCLUSIONS

Subependymomas demonstrate mixed populations of cells expressing glial lineage markers as well as putative stem cell markers, suggesting these tumors may arise from multipotent glial progenitors that reside in the subventricular zone. Definitive diagnosis requires surgical sampling. Although the clinical course of subependymomas appears benign, the inability to radiographically diagnose these lesions, and the possibility of an alternative malignant lesion support a low threshold for early and safe maximal resection.

Descriptive epidemiology of primary malignant and non-malignant central nervous tumors in Spain: Results from the Girona Cancer Registry (1994-2013)

BACKGROUND

Systematic registration of non-malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumors is a rare practice among European cancer registries. Thus, the real burden of all CNS tumors across Europe is underestimated. The Girona Cancer Registry provides here the first data on CNS tumor incidence and survival trends in Spain for all histological types, including malignant and non-malignant tumors.

METHODS

Data on all incident cases of primary CNS tumors notified to the Girona population-based cancer registry from 1994 to 2013 (n=2,131) were reviewed. Incidences rates (IRs) were standardized to the 2013 European population and annual percentage changes (EAPC) were estimated using a piecewise log linear model. 1- and 5-year observed (OS) and relative survival (RS) were also calculated. Results were expressed by sex, age-group, histological subtype and behavior.

RESULTS

The overall IR was 16.85 and increased across the period of study (EAPC=+2.2%). The proportion and IRs of malignant (50.2%; IR=9.35) and non-malignant cases (49.8%; IR=9.14) were similar; however, non-malignant tumors were more frequent in women (sex ratio=0.63). The most frequently reported histologies were meningioma (27.6%; IR=5.11) and glioblastoma (22.2%; IR=4.15), which also accounted for the highest and lowest 5-year RS (80.2%; 3.7%, respectively). Globally, 5-year RS was lower in men (42.6% vs. 58.3%, respectively) and in the elderly (64.9% for 0-14years vs. 23.0% for >74years).

CONCLUSION

This study presents a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology of malignant and non-malignant CNS primary tumors from the well-established region-wide Girona Cancer Registry (1994-2013). Incidence rates were recovered for all histologies. Survival is still dramatically associated to both age and histological subtype.

Incidence and survival trends in oligodendrogliomas and anaplastic oligodendrogliomas in the United States from 2000 to 2013: a CBTRUS Report

Measuring tumor-specific trends in incidence is necessary to elucidate tumor-type contribution to overall cancer burden in the US population. Recently, there have been conflicting reports concerning the incidence of oligodendrogliomas (OD) and anaplastic oligodendrogliomas (AOD). Therefore, our goal was to examine trends in OD and AOD incidence and survival by age, gender and race. Data was analyzed from the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS) from 2000 to 2013. Age-adjusted incidence rates per 100,000 person-years with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and annual percent changes (APCs) with 95% CI were calculated for OD and AOD by age, sex and race. Survival rates were calculated for age, sex and race using a subset of the CBTRUS data. OD and AOD incidence peaked at 36-40 and 56-60 years, respectively. AOD:OD ratio increased up to age 75. Overall, OD and AOD incidence decreased [OD: APC -3.2 (2000-2013), AOD: -6.5 (2000-2007)]. OD incidence was highest in Whites but decreased significantly (2000-2013: APC -3.1) while incidence in Black populations did not significantly decrease (2000-2013: APC -1.6). Survival rates decreased with advancing age for OD, while persons aged 0-24 had the lowest survival for AOD. The current study reports a decrease in overall OD and AOD incidence from 2000 to 2013. Furthermore, AOD makes up an increasing proportion of oligodendroglial tumors up to age 75. Lower AOD survival in 0-24 years old may indicate molecular differences in pediatric cases. Thus, surveillance of tumor-specific trends by age, race and sex can reveal clinically relevant variations.

Cancers of the brain and CNS: global patterns and trends in incidence

Background

Cancers of the brain and CNS constitute a group of rare and heterogeneous tumors. Increasing incidence in Western populations has been linked to improvements in diagnostic technology, although interpretation is hampered by changes in diagnosis and reporting. The present study examines geographic and temporal variations in incidence rates of brain and CNS cancers worldwide.

Methods

Data from successive volumes of Cancer Incidence in Five Continents were used, including 96 registries in 39 countries. We used Joinpoint regression to estimate the average annual percentage change and its 95% CI.

Results

Globally, a large variability in the magnitude of the diagnosis of new cases of brain and CNS cancer was found, with a 5-fold difference between the highest rates (mainly in Europe) and the lowest (mainly in Asia). Increasing rates of brain and CNS cancer were found in South America, namely in Ecuador, Brazil, and Colombia; in eastern Europe (Czech Republic and Russia), in southern Europe (Slovenia), and in the 3 Baltic countries. Trends were similar between sexes, although decreasing trends in men and women were seen in Japan and New Zealand.

Conclusions

Important regional variations in brain and CNS cancers exist, and given an increasing burden and risk worldwide, there is a need for further etiological research that focuses on the elucidation of environmental risk. The trends are sufficiently complex and diffuse, however, to warrant a cautious approach to interpretation.

Epidemiology for primary brain tumors: a nationwide population-based study

Primary central nervous system tumors (PCNST) are rare tumors responsible for high mortality and morbidity. Their epidemiology is poorly known, and clinical data are scarcely analyzed at a national level. In this study, we aimed at providing descriptive epidemiological data and incidence rates for all histological subtypes of PCNST according to the WHO classification. We conducted a nationwide population-based study of all newly diagnosed and histologically confirmed PCNST in France, between 2006 and 2011. A total of 57,816 patients were included: male 46.4%, median age at diagnosis 56 years old (range 0-99). For all newly diagnosed PCNST with histological confirmation the crude incidence rate was 15.5/10⁵ per 100,000 person-years. To enable international comparisons, standardized rates were calculated: 14.1/10⁵ (population of reference: USA), 14.5/10⁵ (population of reference: Europe), and 12.0/10⁵ (population of reference: world). 23.4% of samples were cryopreserved. Resection was performed in 79.1% of cases. Results are detailed (incidence rate, sex ratio, median age at diagnosis, number of cryopreserved samples, and type of surgery) for each of the 143 histological subtypes of PCNST, including all rare tumors. For example, incidence rates (population of reference: USA) were 0.018/10⁵ for anaplastic gangliogliomas, 0.054/10⁵ for malignant meningiomas, and 0.036/10⁵ for hemangiopericytomas. Our study is the first to describe incidence rates and epidemiological data for all histological subtypes of PCNST, including rare tumors, at a national level. Its methodology ensures the exhaustiveness of the data collection for histologically-proven cases. Histological population-based studies have many perspectives in the field of clinical epidemiology and research.

Descriptive epidemiology and risk factors of primary central nervous system tumors: Current knowledge

Although comparisons are difficult due to differences in methodologies, the annual incidence rates of central nervous system (CNS) tumors range from 8.5 to 21.4/100,000 population according to cancer registries, with a predominance of neuroepithelial tumors in men and meningiomas in women. An increase in the incidence of CNS tumors has been observed during the past decades in several countries. It has been suggested that this trend could be due to aging of the population, and improvements in diagnostic imaging and healthcare access, but these factors do not explain differences in incidence by gender and histological subtypes. Several etiological hypotheses related to intrinsic (sociodemographic, anthropometric, hormonal, immunological, genetic) and exogenous (ionizing radiation, electromagnetic fields, diet, infections, pesticides, drugs) risk factors have led to analytical epidemiological studies to establish relationships with CNS tumors. The only established environmental risk factor for CNS tumors is ionizing radiation exposure. However, for other risk factors, studies have been inconsistent and inconclusive due to systematic differences in study design and difficulties in accurately measuring exposures. Thus, the etiology of CNS tumors is complex and may involve several genetic and/or environmental factors that may act differently according to histological subtype.

The epidemiology of glioma in adults: a "state of the science" review

Gliomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor, representing 81% of malignant brain tumors. Although relatively rare, they cause significant mortality and morbidity. Glioblastoma, the most common glioma histology (∼45% of all gliomas), has a 5-year relative survival of ∼5%. A small portion of these tumors are caused by Mendelian disorders, including neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Genomic analyses of glioma have also produced new evidence about risk and prognosis. Recently discovered biomarkers that indicate improved survival include O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase methylation, isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation, and a glioma cytosine-phosphate-guanine island methylator phenotype. Genome-wide association studies have identified heritable risk alleles within 7 genes that are associated with increased risk of glioma. Many risk factors have been examined as potential contributors to glioma risk. Most significantly, these include an increase in risk by exposure to ionizing radiation and a decrease in risk by history of allergies or atopic disease(s). The potential influence of occupational exposures and cellular phones has also been examined, with inconclusive results. We provide a “state of the science” review of current research into causes and risk factors for gliomas in adults.

Malignant tumours of the central nervous system in Kazakhstan--incidence trends from 2004-2011

In the article were observed the epidemiological aspects of malignant tumors of the central nervous system (MT CNS) in Kazakhstan in a retrospective study for the years 2004-2011. The material of the study was consolidated accounting data of oncology centers on patients with MT CNS (C70-72) with first time established diagnosis. Calculated were crude, age, standardized (world standard), aligned and predicted incidence of MT CNS among both male and female populations. It was found that over the studied period, there were 4,604 cases of MT CNS. The average annual crude incidence rate of MT CNS in total population was 3.7±0.10/0000. Trends in aligned incidence rates in the whole country had a tendency to increase (T=+0.9%). Defined levels of morbidity MT CNS in the whole population in different regions of Kazakhstan: low up to 2.870/0000, the average from 2.87 to 4.450/0000 and high from 4.450/0000 and above on the basis of which was given the space-time estimate. Age and sex differences in MT CNS incidence were also clearly established.

Incidence rates of the primary brain tumours in Georgia--a population-based study

BACKGROUND

To determine the incidence rate and to describe other basic epidemiological data of primary brain tumours in a population-based study in Georgia, performed between March 2009 and March 2011.

METHODS

Active case ascertainment was used to identify brain tumour cases by searching neuroradiology scan reports and medical records from all participating medical institutions, covering almost 100% of the neurooncology patients in the country.

RESULTS

A total of 980 new cases were identified during the two-year period. For a population of almost 4.5 million, the overall annual incidence rate was 10.62 per 100,000 person-years, age-standardized to the year 2000 US population (ASR). Non-malignant tumours constituted about 65.5% of all tumours. Males accounted for 44% and females for 56% of the cases. Among classified tumours, age-standardized incidence rates by histology were highest for meningiomas (2.65/100,000), pituitary adenoma (1.23/100,000) and glioblastomas (0.51/100,000). ASR were higher among females than males for all primary brain tumours (10.35 vs. 9.48/100,000) as well as for main histology groups except for neuroepithelial, lymphomas and germ cell tumours.

CONCLUSIONS

The annual incidence rate of all primary brain tumours in Georgia, though comparable with some European registry data, is low in comparison with the 2004-2005 Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS) database, which may reflect variations in reporting and methodology. The higher percentage of unclassified tumours (37.8%) probably also affects the discrepancies between our and CBTRUS findings. However, the most frequently reported tumour was meningioma with a significant predominance in females, which is consistent with CBTRUS data.

Older adults with acquired brain injury: a population based study

Background

Acquired brain injury (ABI), which includes traumatic (TBI) and non-traumatic brain injury (nTBI), is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. The objective of this study was to examine the trends, characteristics, cause of brain injury, and discharge destination of hospitalized older adults aged 65 years and older with an ABI diagnosis in a population with universal access to hospital care. The profile of characteristics of patients with TBI and nTBI causes of injury was also compared.

Methods

A population based retrospective cohort study design with healthcare administrative databases was used. Data on acute care admissions were obtained from the Discharge Abstract Database and patients were identified using the International Classification of Diseases – Version 10 codes for Ontario, Canada from April 1, 2003 to March 31, 2010. Older adults were examined in three age groups – 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and 85+ years.

Results

From 2003/04 to 2009/10, there were 14,518 episodes of acute care associated with a TBI code and 51, 233 episodes with a nTBI code. Overall, the rate of hospitalized TBI and nTBI episodes increased with older age groups. From 2007/08 to 2009/10, the percentage of patients that stayed in acute care for 12 days or more and the percentage of patients with delayed discharge from acute care increased with age. The most common cause of TBI was falls while the most common type of nTBI was brain tumours. The percentage of patients discharged to long term care and complex continuing care increased with age and the percentage discharged home decreased with age. In-hospital mortality also increased with age. Older adults with TBI and nTBI differed significantly in demographic and clinical characteristics and discharge destination from acute care.

Conclusions

This study showed an increased rate of acute care admissions for both TBI and nTBI with age. It also provided additional support for falls prevention strategies to prevent injury leading to cognitive disability with costly human and economic consequences. Implications for increased numbers of people with ABI are discussed.

Cancer at ages 15-29 years: the contrasting incidence in India and England

BACKGROUND

There has been a steady increase in published research from Europe and North America on the epidemiology of cancers in young people. There are limited data from the developing world. We contrast the incidence of cancer at ages 15-29 years in India and England.

PROCEDURE

Malignant neoplasms in those aged 15-29 years registered during 2001-2003 in five urban population-based cancer registries (PBCRs) of India and in eight PBCRs in England were included. Site-based classification was used. Age-standardized incidence rates were expressed per 100,000 person years.

RESULTS

In India, 4,864 (5.8%) of 84,450 cases and in England, 8,137 (1.2%) of 65,6752 cancer cases occurred in those aged 15-29 years. For this age group, the incidence rate for males and females in India were 12.91 and 14.19, and in England were 27.75 and 28.88, respectively. In males aged 15-29 years, the three most common cancers in India were leukemia, lymphoma, and central nervous system tumors and in England were cancers of male genital organs, lymphoma, and leukemia. Cancers of female genital organs, breast, and leukemia were most common in females in India and cancers of female genital organs, lymphoma, and melanoma in England. For cancers of mouth, stomach, and gall bladder, the incidence was higher in India.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of cancer at ages 15-29 years in England is higher at most sites than in India. Variation in environmental exposures between the two countries might be an explanation. Under-ascertainment of cases and gender bias in seeking healthcare may also influence reported incidence rates in India.

Descriptive epidemiology of CNS tumors in France: results from the Gironde Registry for the period 2000-2007

An increase in the incidence of CNS tumors has been observed in many countries in the last decades. The reality of this trend has been much debated, as it has happened during a period when computer-assisted tomography and MRI have dramatically improved the detection of these tumors. The Gironde CNS Tumor Registry provides here the first data on CNS tumor incidence and trends in France for all histological types, including benign and malignant tumors, for the period 2000-2007. Incidence rates were calculated globally and for each histological subtype. For trends, a piecewise log-linear model was used. The overall annual incidence rate was found to be 17.6/100 000. Of this rate, 7.9/100 000 were neuroepithelial tumors and 6.0/100 000 were meningiomas. An overall increase in CNS tumor incidence was observed from 2000 to 2007, with an annual percent change (APC) of +2.33%, which was explained mainly by an increase in the incidence of meningiomas over the 8-year period (APC = +5.4%), and also more recently by an increase in neuroepithelial tumors (APC = +7.45% from 2003). The overall increase was more pronounced in women and in the elderly, with an APC peaking at +24.65% in subjects 85 and over. The increase in the incidence rates we observed may have several explanations: not only improvements in registration, diagnosis, and clinical practice, but also changes in potential risk factors.

French brain tumor database: 5-year histological results on 25 756 cases

This work aimed to prospectively record all primary central nervous system tumor (PCNST) cases in France, for which histological diagnosis is available. The objectives were to (i) create a national registry and a network to perform epidemiological studies; (ii) implement clinical and basic research protocols; and (iii) harmonize the health care of patients affected by PCNST. For 5 years, 25 756 cases of newly diagnosed and histologically confirmed PCNST have been recorded. Histological diagnoses included glioma (48.9%), all other neuroepithelial tumors (5%), meningioma (28.8%), nerve sheath tumors (8.4%), lymphoma (3.2%) and others (5.7%). Cryopreservation was reported for 6018 PCNST specimens. Tumor resections (R) were performed in 78% cases, while biopsies accounted for 22%. Median age (MA), sex, percentage R and number of cryopreserved tumors were detailed for each histology; for example, out of 6053 glioblastomas (MA 63 years, male 59.4%, R 62%, 1611 were cryopreserved), and out of 37 atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (MA 2 years, male 56.8%, R 94%, 17 were cryopreserved). This database or databank dedicated to PCNST cases contains detailed data on clinical, histological and other characteristics, such as the inclusion of data on cryopreserved specimens that are not available in other European registries. Therefore, this is a valuable resource that can be used for planning future epidemiological and clinical research.

Coffee and tea intake and risk of brain tumors in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort study

BACKGROUND

In a recent US cohort study, total coffee and tea consumption was inversely associated with risk of glioma, and experimental studies showed that caffeine can slow the invasive growth of glioblastoma.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to examine the relation between coffee and tea intake and the risk of glioma and meningioma in a large European cohort study, the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC).

DESIGN

Data on coffee and tea intake were collected from men and women recruited into the EPIC cohort study. Over an average of 8.5 y of follow-up, 343 cases of glioma and 245 cases of meningioma were newly diagnosed in 9 countries. We used Cox proportional hazards models to examine the relation between coffee and tea and brain tumors.

RESULTS

We observed no associations between coffee, tea, or combined coffee and tea consumption and risk of either type of brain tumor when using quantiles based on country-specific distributions of intake. However, a significant inverse association was observed for glioma risk among those consuming ≥100 mL coffee and tea per day compared with those consuming <100 mL/d (hazard ratio: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.44, 0.97; P = 0.03). The association was slightly stronger in men (hazard ratio: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.34, 1.01) than in women (hazard ratio: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.42, 1.31), although neither was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort study, we observed an inverse association between total coffee and tea consumption and risk of glioma that was consistent with the findings of a recent study. These findings, if further replicated in other studies, may provide new avenues of research on gliomas.