Pancreatic cancer mortality trend in Montenegro, 1990-2018.

Background: According to the Global Cancer Observatory 2020 report, pancreatic cancer occupies the 11th position among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in both sexes, with nearly 500,000 deaths annually worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the trend of mortality due to pancreatic cancer in Montenegro from 1990 to 2018 and to contribute to the effective planning of preventive strategies for pancreatic cancer as well as future health policies and initiatives.

Methods: We utilized national data on the causes of death from pancreatic cancer and codes 157 from the 9th and C25 from the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases. The trend was described by using Joinpoint, Poisson, and linear regression.

Results: Mortality rates of pancreatic cancer in Montenegro consistently increased (P < 0.05) for the overall level for both men and women, with the average annual percentage change (AAPC) in the AAPC order (95% confidence interval): 1.7% (0.9%-2.5%) overall, 1.3% (0.4%-2.1%) in men, and 2.2% (0.9%-3.5%) in women. The majority of those who died from pancreatic cancer were aged 65-74 years (32.7%), 55-64 years (26.3%), and 75-84 years (24.1%).

Conclusions: The persistent increase in pancreatic cancer mortality rates in Montenegro, observed in both men and women, highlights a concerning public health trend. With the highest proportion of deaths occurring among individuals aged 55-84 years, these findings underscore the urgent need for policymakers to implement a national strategy targeting early detection, prevention, and improved management, especially among the most affected age groups.