Objective: To investigate the incidence and mortality rates of thyroid cancer in Zhejiang province during 2000 to 2009.
Methods: The data of thyroid cancer were collected from six cancer registries in Zhejiang province and the incidence and mortality rates of thyroid cancer were analysed.
Results: The mean annual incidence rate of thyroid cancer in Zhejiang cancer registration areas was 6.93/100 000 during 2000 to 2009, and male/female ratio was 1: 3.43. The incidence rate was 3.62/100 000 in 2000 and it increased to 11.42/100 000 in 2009, with the annual percent change (APC) of 16.32% (95% confidence interval: 12.90%-19.85%). The mean annual mortality rate of thyroid cancer was 0.27/100 000 during 2000 to 2009, and male/female ratio was 1: 1.12. The mortality showed a rising trend without a distinct fluctuation from 2000 to 2009, the APC was 2.14% (95% confidence interval: from -7.10% to 12.30%). The incidence showed a rising trend with the increase of ages after 15 years old, and peaked at 55-60 years old. The mortality was low before 54 years old, but showed a rising trend with a distinct fluctuation after 55 years old, and peaked at 85-90 years old.
Conclusion: The prevention and control of risk factors for thyroid cancer in young and middle-aged people is key to decrease the incidence and mortality of thyroid cancer.