Introduction: Previous studies in Denmark have reported an increase in prostate cancer (PC) incidence- and mortality rates. So far, it has not been possible to establish the rising incidence as a consequence of an increase in diagnostic procedures. This study reviews the trends in PC incidence and mortality rates in Denmark during the 60-year-period from 1943 to 2002.
Material and methods: Register-based study.
Results: The age-standardised (World Standard Population) rate of PC in Denmark increased from 11.4/100,00 in the period 1943-47 to 38.2/100,000 in the period 1998-2002. Mortality rate increased from 13.5/100,000 in 1953 to 19.1/100,000 in the period 1993-98. Within the last 10 years changes in age-distribution and clinical stage, especially among younger patients, indicate a shift towards a more active diagnostic policy.
Conclusion: In concordance with other studies we found an increasing PC incidence. In the last 10-year-period studied from 1993 to 2002, our study found the rise in incidence most likely explained by an increase in diagnostic activity, presumably as unsystematic PSA-based "gray-zone screening". This development contrasts with the national recommendation for PSA-based screening for PC. The rising incidence will necessitate allocation of increased resources for evaluation, treatment, and follow-up of patients with PC.