Introduction:
Taiwan has seen a notable rise in cancer diagnoses in 2022 following a significant dip during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Health Promotion Administration (HPA), the number of new cancer cases reached 130,293, marking an increase of over 8,500 cases compared to 2021. Lung cancer and colorectal cancer remain the top diagnosed types, reflecting ongoing public health challenges.
Key Trends in Cancer Diagnoses for 2022:
In its annual report on cancer trends, the HPA highlighted that the rise in diagnoses in 2022 was in stark contrast to the lower rates observed during the pandemic years. Between 2017 and 2019, Taiwan had consistently seen a rise of 4,000 to 6,000 new cancer cases each year. However, during the pandemic, this trend slowed considerably, with only 725 additional diagnoses in 2020 and a decrease in 2021.
The drop in 2021 can be attributed to the pandemic’s disruption of regular screenings and health checkups, resulting in delayed diagnoses. As restrictions eased and life returned to normal, a backlog of undiagnosed cases contributed to the sharp rise in cancer cases in 2022.
Most Common Cancers Diagnosed in Taiwan:
The most common cancers diagnosed in 2022 were lung cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer, continuing a pattern from previous years. Here’s a look at the top 10 cancers diagnosed:
| Rank | Cancer Type | Total Cases (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lung Cancer | Largest increase, especially in men |
| 2 | Colorectal Cancer | Remained a leading type |
| 3 | Breast Cancer | Most common in women |
| 4 | Liver Cancer | Rising in both genders |
| 5 | Prostate Cancer | Leading in men |
| 6 | Oral Cancer | Notable rise in younger people |
| 7 | Thyroid Cancer | More common in younger women |
| 8 | Stomach Cancer | Persistent issue |
| 9 | Skin Cancer | Increasing rates |
| 10 | Endometrial Cancer | Higher in women over 50 |
This list is very similar to the one compiled for 2021, with lung cancer overtaking colorectal cancer as the most commonly diagnosed type. Lung cancer had previously ranked second after colorectal cancer from 2006 to 2020.
Cancer Diagnosis by Age and Gender:
- Median Age for Diagnosis: The median age for a new cancer diagnosis in Taiwan in 2022 was 64 years old. However, certain cancers are diagnosed at younger ages, such as oral cancer (59), breast cancer (57), and thyroid cancer (50).
- Gender Breakdown:
- Males: 67,299 new cases, with the top three types being colorectal cancer (9,989 cases), lung cancer (9,417 cases), and prostate cancer (9,062 cases).
- Females: 62,994 new cases, with breast cancer being the most prevalent (17,366 cases), followed by lung cancer (8,565 cases) and colorectal cancer (7,654 cases).
Importance of Regular Cancer Screenings:
The HPA has urged the public to maintain regular cancer screenings, emphasizing that early detection remains the most effective way to combat cancer. Taiwan’s healthcare system has been working to increase awareness of cancer prevention and screening programs to help catch diseases in their early, more treatable stages.
FAQ:
1. Why did the number of cancer diagnoses decrease during COVID-19?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people delayed or skipped regular health checkups and cancer screenings due to lockdowns and healthcare system disruptions. This led to a backlog of undiagnosed cases, which resulted in the sharp increase seen in 2022.
2. What are the most common cancers diagnosed in Taiwan?
Lung cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer were the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Taiwan in 2022.
3. What is the median age for cancer diagnosis in Taiwan?
The median age for a new cancer diagnosis in Taiwan in 2022 was 64 years old.
4. How can cancer be detected early?
Regular screenings and checkups are crucial for early detection, which improves the chances of successful treatment. The HPA encourages all citizens to stay up to date with their screenings.
5. Are there any age-related trends in cancer diagnoses?
Yes, cancers like oral cancer and breast cancer are typically diagnosed at younger ages, with oral cancer generally diagnosed at 59 years and breast cancer at 57 years.
