Long-term survival disparities in colorectal cancer: A population-based study in Cyprus (2000–2015)
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading non-communicable disease and a major contributor to cancer-related mortality. Long-term survival outcomes differ significantly between population subgroups, often reflecting persistent social and regional health inequalities. This study investigates long-term CRC survival in Cyprus over a 15-year period, aiming to inform evidence-based strategies for reducing cancer survival inequalities. Methods A population-based ecological study using cancer registry data (n = 4,940) was conducted in Cyprus (2000-2015). Kaplan-Meier curves estimated survival rates. Cox Proportional Hazards Models assessed hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause and CRC-specific mortality, adjusted for age, gender, year of diagnosis, and area-level socioeconomic deprivation index (quartiles). Analyses were stratified into two periods: 2000-2007 and 2008-2015. Results Overall survival was 76.4% at 1 year, 36.5% at 5 years, and 3.7% at 15 years; CRC specific survival was 83%, 44%, and 17%, respectively. Median all-cause survival was 3.2 years (95% CI: 3.08-3.42) and CRC-specific survival was 4.2 years (95% CI: 3.8-4.45). Age was a significant predictor (HR = 1.03 per 10-year increase, 95% CI: 1.02-1.04). No significant sex based differences were observed. During 2008-2015, patients in the third deprivation quartile had a higher mortality risk (HR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.01-1.72). A similar pattern was noted for CRC-specific mortality (HR = 1.31; 95% CI:0.90-1.93), though not statistically significant. Conclusions Long-term CRC survival in Cyprus is low, particularly among older adults and in socioeconomically deprived areas. These findings highlight the urgency of strengthening population-wide screening programmes, early diagnosis, and timely access to treatment. Equity-driven public health policies and targeted interventions are essential to close survival gaps and ensure fairer cancer outcomes. Key messages • Long-term colorectal cancer survival in Cyprus remains low and uneven across socioeconomic groups. • Policies targeting early detection and equitable access are vital to improving colorectal cancer outcomes.
Authors: A Assiotou, D Lamnisos
Institution: European University Cyprus
Language: English
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,181
OpenAlex ID: W7101443815
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