Spatial patterns of testicular cancer diagnosis in Australia, 2010-2019

Aim

To investigate the spatial patterns of the incidence rates of testicular cancer, and broad regional differences in survival, between 2010 and 2019 in Australia using national population-based cancer registry data.

Methods

Incidence data including residential location at diagnosis were obtained from the Australian Cancer Database, with mortality followed-up until end of 2019. Incidence spatial patterns were modelled using Bayesian spatial Leroux models and spatial heterogeneity tested using the maximised excess events test. Relative survival rates by broad region were modelled using flexible parametric relative survival models.

Results

From all the notifications of testicular cancer (n = 8217), the age-standardized incidence rate was 8.9 cases per 100,000 males each year. We found evidence of significant spatial variation in the incidence of testicular cancer across small geographical areas, with some areas including those in Tasmania showing standardised incidence ratios above the national average. The 5-year relative survival estimate was 97.5 % [95 % CI: 97.1–97.9].

Conclusion

There is a need to raise awareness of testicular cancer in high-risk geographical areas and age groups, and to conduct further research into drivers of localised spatial patterns.