Clinical Report: National Epidemiological Analysis of Bone Cancer in Saudi Arabia
Overview
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of bone cancer incidence in Saudi Arabia from 2004 to 2020, revealing a total of 2,275 cases with a male predominance and a notable adolescent peak in incidence. Regional variations in age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) across the country were observed.
Background
Bone cancer is a rare malignancy with varying incidence patterns influenced by age, sex, and geography. This study addresses the gap in comprehensive population-based data on bone cancer in the region.
Data Highlights
Year
Total Cases
Male Cases
Female Cases
2004-2020
2275
1318 (57.9%)
957 (42.1%)
Key Findings
Total of 2,275 primary bone cancer cases recorded from 2004 to 2020.
Bone cancer accounted for approximately 2.0% of all cancers among males and 0.9% among females.
Mean age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) were higher in males (≈1.0 per 100,000) than in females (≈0.7 per 100,000).
Age-specific incidence peaked in adolescents, particularly in the 15–19-year age group.
Regional variations in ASIRs were noted, with higher rates in Al-Jouf and Najran.
Cumulative incidence rates (CIRs) remained below 2.0 per 100,000 throughout the study period.
Clinical Implications
The findings underscore the need for enhanced cancer surveillance in Saudi Arabia to monitor bone cancer trends and inform healthcare planning. Understanding the demographic and regional variations can aid in targeted public health interventions.
Conclusion
This study highlights the rarity of bone cancer in Saudi Arabia while revealing significant variations in incidence by sex, age, and region.
by Ibrahim G. Alghamdi, Hasan A Alaidarous, Murad I Alghamdi, Khalid A Alghamdi, Musharraf A Alghamdi, Mazen S Alghamdi, Anas A Alzahrani, Tariq A Alghamdi, Osama M Alomari, Khalid S Alghamdi, Mohammed M Alzahrani, Ragad A Alzahrani, Hazim H Alsadi