Racial and regional disparities in male genital cancer mortality in the United States, 1999-2020: A population-based CDC WONDER and joinpoint trend analysis

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-18-2025

Publication Title

Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev

Keywords

Oncology, Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Abstract

Introduction: Male genital cancers, which encompass penile, prostate, testicular, and scrotal cancers, contribute significantly to cancer-related morbidity and mortality, with growing evidence of disparities across racial and regional groups. Data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) estimates that male genital cancers make up about 8% of cancer-related mortality and 15% of male cancer incidence in adults in 2022. Understanding these trends is crucial for targeted public health interventions and resource allocation. This study evaluates mortality trends for male genital cancers in the U.S. from 1999 to 2020, stratified by race and U.S. Census region. Methods: Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) for male genital cancers (using ICD-10 codes C60-C63) were extracted from the CDC WONDER database (1999–2020). Joinpoint regression models were used to identify significant changes in mortality trends by United States (U.S.) Census region (Northeast, Midwest, South, West) and racial/ethnic groups (White, Black or African American, Asian or Pacific Islander, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Hispanic or Latino). Annual Percent Changes (APC) and Average Annual Percent Changes (AAPC) were calculated, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: From 1999 to 2020, all U.S. Census regions experienced significant declines in male genital cancer mortality, most notably in the Northeast (AAPC: −2.17%, p < 0.001), followed by the Midwest (−1.75%, p < 0.001), South (−2.04%, p < 0.001), and West (−1.36%, p < 0.001). However, post-2013 trends revealed a slowing or reversal in decline, with the West and Midwest showing increases (APC: +0.31% and +0.33%, respectively), although those increases were not statistically significant. Racial disparities were also evident, showing that Black or African American men had the highest overall mortality rate despite the most pronounced overall reduction in mortality (AAPC: −2.82%, p < 0.001), while Hispanic (−1.91%, p < 0.001) and White (−1.62%, p < 0.001) populations showed more modest declines. Asian or Pacific Islander men had a significant early decline (APC: −3.05%) followed by a non-significant increase, while American Indian or Alaska Native men saw a consistent decline (AAPC: −2.14%, p < 0.001). Trends from 2013 onward indicate stagnation or increase in several groups, particularly among Hispanic and White populations. Conclusions: Despite overall improvements, persistent racial and regional disparities remain in male genital cancer mortality. Black men continue to experience the highest burden, and recent stagnation in mortality declines among several populations raises significant concern. These findings underscore the need for equitable, targeted strategies to reduce disparities and improve outcomes in these high-risk groups.

Volume

34

Issue

9

First Page

C9

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