Cancer remains one of the foremost public health challenges of the 21st century, characterized by remarkable heterogeneity in its incidence, mortality, and survival rates across populations and regions. Epidemiological research is vital in elucidating the complex etiology of various cancer types, identifying emerging trends in cancer burden, and informing effective intervention strategies. This special issue aims to advance our understanding of cancer epidemiology, particularly in light with the recent increasing trends in the younger and female population, by inviting original research articles, systematic reviews, and perspectives that investigate the patterns, determinants, and control of cancer on both a population and global scale.

A central objective of this issue is to provide a comprehensive platform for studies that:

Track and Analyze Cancer Incidence:

We seek submissions utilizing large-scale population registries, cohort studies, and surveillance data to characterize cancer incidence and mortality trends across different demographics, socioeconomic groups, and geographical regions. Contributions examining disparities in cancer rates, temporal trends, or the impact of migration and urbanization on cancer patterns are particularly welcome.

Risk Factor Identification:
We encourage research exploring the interplay between genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors (such as tobacco use, diet, and physical inactivity), environmental exposures (like pollutants and occupational hazards), and infectious agents in cancer development. Studies employing molecular epidemiology, genomics, and biomarker discovery to uncover causal associations and at-risk populations are highly valued.

Evaluating Prevention and Screening Programs:
Early detection and prevention are critical pillars in cancer control. This issue will feature analyses of the effectiveness, accessibility, and equity of cancer screening programs for breast, cervical, colorectal, and other major cancers. Research examining methodological challenges in measuring screening outcomes, or the implementation of novel screening technologies in diverse settings, are strongly encouraged.

Treatment Effectiveness and Outcomes:
While the primary focus is epidemiological, we also invite investigations that connect population-based data to cancer treatment advances, such as the role of immunotherapies, targeted therapies, and combination regimens. Studies assessing real-world effectiveness, treatment accessibility, and survivorship outcomes will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how therapeutic innovations shape patient trajectories at the population level.

Geographical Patterns and Cancer Control:
Spatial analysis of cancer epidemiology, including mapping cancer risk and outcomes by region, exploring the impact of regional healthcare infrastructure, and assessing the influence of public health policies on cancer burden, are all within scope. We are particularly interested in comparative studies between high-income and low- and middle-income countries.

We invite manuscripts covering, but not limited to, the following topics:

1. The contribution of genetic and environmental risk factors to cancer epidemiology and prognosis.

2.The population-level impact and real-world use of immunotherapies and other novel treatment strategies.

3.Evaluation of the effectiveness of screening and early detection programs: methodologies, longitudinal outcomes, barriers to uptake, and strategies to improve participation.

4. Comparative effectiveness research on cancer treatment approaches, including analysis of survival, quality of life, and population health outcomes.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Cancer Epidemiology: Patterns, Causes, and Therapeutic Advancements