Lung cancer: Scottish data
The discussion below focuses on lung cancer. Detailed statistics on lung cancer in Scotland are available as downloadable Excel files via the lung cancer area of the ISD Scotland web site. Direct links to some of these Excel files are provided below.
Incidence
In Scotland, after non-melanoma skin cancer, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, and the second most common in women. It accounts for almost 20% of all cancers diagnosed in men, and almost 15% of all cancers diagnosed in women. The incidence of lung cancer has been falling in men since the late 1970's but has been increasing in women for several decades to reach a more recent plateau. (see Chart 1).The disease is uncommon below the age of 40. Thereafter, incidence increases quite steeply with age.
ISD data files: Incidence for Scotland and by NHS Board (279KB)
: Incidence numbers by local authority (505KB) and Incidence rates by local authority (505KB)
Mortality
Lung cancer is the most common cause of death from cancer in both men and women in Scotland. Since lung cancer has a generally poor prognosis, trends in mortality are very similar to tends in incidence (see Chart 2).
ISD data file: Mortality(288KB)
Survival
Survival from lung cancer is poor with less than 10% of patients still alive at five years after diagnosis.
ISD data file: Survival(31KB)
Prevalence
The generally poor survival from lung cancer means that the prevalence of the disease is low compared to some other common cancers (such as breast cancer) with more favourable prognosis.
ISD data file: Prevalence(17.5KB)
Lifetime Risk
Based on current rates of disease, an estimated 1 in 11 men, and 1 in 17 women develop lung cancer during their lifetime.
ISD data file: Lifetime risk(16.5KB)
Deprivation
Lung cancer is more common in deprived areas, reflecting the generally higher prevalence of risk factors in residents of these areas. Survival is lower in deprived areas. NHS Board and local authority comparisons are available via the lung cancer area of the ISD Scotland web site.
ISD data file: Deprivation(17KB)
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