Características epidemiológicas del cáncer de páncreas en Ecuador, periodo 2008-2023.

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a malignancy with high lethality and low survival, positioning it as an emerging public health priority. In Ecuador, the absence of updated nationwide studies hinders the development of effective prevention strategies and oncological care policies. Objective: Analyze the epidemiological characteristics of pancreatic cancer in Ecuador during the period 2008-2023. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional epidemiological study based on secondary data from a free access database which was the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC), encompassing hospital discharge records and mortality data. All registered cases of pancreatic cancer (ICD-10: C25) were included, without restrictions regarding age, sex, or geographical region. Variables analyzed included age, sex, ethnicity, region, area of residence, mortality, and annual incidence. A total of 10,818 cases were recorded, with an almost equal distribution between males (50.51%) and females (49.49%); most cases occurred in individuals over 60 years of age. Results: The national incidence rate increased from 2.35 (2008) to 7.31 (2023) per 100,000 inhabitants. Mortality also showed an upward trend, reaching 4.66 in 2022. The case fatality rate remained high, with a national average close to 80%, and reaching 100% in provinces with limited healthcare infrastructure. Conclusions and relevance: Pancreatic cancer demonstrates a growing and highly lethal pattern in Ecuador. These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen early diagnostic strategies and ensure equitable access to specialized treatment, particularly in regions with limited oncological coverage. Key words: case fatality rate, Ecuador, incidence, mortality, pancreatic cancer.