Cancer in women.

Incidence, mortality and survival trends for the most frequent cancers affecting women are presented on a worldwide basis. Data sources are represented by several different cancer databases, as no single world cancer database covers these epidemiological measures. Monitoring cancer incidence, mortality and survival are fundamental indicators which allow estimates and predictions of geographical and temporal changes of these diseases, enabling the design and set-up of adequate cancer control activities and national health programs. The observed differences in cancer incidence, mortality and survival in more developed countries compared with less developed countries (as defined by WHO) are mainly due to different individual and social risk factors between the two geo-political areas. For some cancers, advancements in screening, diagnosis and treatment in the more developed areas were the most effective factors in reducing incidence and mortality as well as prolonging survival. These effects were not detected in the less developed areas because of the limited access to primary and specialist care.