The Geographical Distribution of Breast Cancer Incidence Using Geographic Information System in Khorasan Razavi Province, North East Iran: A Registry-based Study

Background aim: Breast cancer is top-ranking cancer among women regarding its incidence and mortality rates. This study aimed to estimate the possible geographical distribution of breast cancer in the Khorasan Razavi province, North East Iran.Methods: This retrospective record review study utilized data from the cancer registration system, focusing on patients registered from 2013 to 2017 in Khorasan Razavi Province. Information from clinical, pathological, and cytological evaluations, as well as death certificates, was collected. Sample size was determined through full enumeration, including all diagnosed patients with breast cancer. Statistical analyses were performed using Stata V. 14 and SPSS V. 20, incorporating mean ± SD and frequency reporting. Incidence rates, age-standardized rates, and geographic clustering were assessed using ArcMap V. 10.6.1 software. Results: Over five years, 5553 patients with breast cancer were diagnosed. The average diagnosis age of the patients was 51.41 ± 12.94 years. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) between 2013 and 2017 was 54.3, 40.9, 44.8, 42.8, and 40, respectively, which revealed an almost decreasing trend. Bakharz and Taibad cities have the highest and lowest incidence rates compared to neighborhood cities in Khorasan Razavi province, respectively. Anselin Local Moran’s I test revealed that there is no identified significant cluster in the counties of Khorasan Razavi (P 0.05). Conclusion: The study suggests a decreasing trend in breast cancer incidence, with the highest rates in the 40-49 age group. Recommendations include implementing screening and prevention measures, particularly targeting high-risk populations to address this health concern.