Multiple myeloma in Lebanon: Trend analysis, 10-year projections and comparisons to other countries.

BACKGROUND: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a common hematological malignancy in aging populations. This study aims to inspect the trends from 2005 to 2016 and future projections of MM in Lebanon and to compare its incidence-rates to other MENA and non-MENA countries. METHODS: The data concerning MM cases over the studied period was extracted from the National Cancer Registry (NCR) of Lebanon. The online database "Cancer Incidence in Five Continents" was screened and data of other countries were collected. The age-specific and age-standardized incidence rates (ASR(w)) were computed and analyzed using Joinpoint regression. 10 year projections were predicted by employing a logarithmic model. RESULTS: During the time period 2005-2016, MM was significantly more common in males. Both genders had a cancer peak in patients older than 75 years. MM demonstrated a significantly increasing trend in both genders over the 12 years of study. Compared to other countries in the MENA region, Lebanon ranked first in females and second in males, while it came among the lowest when compared to randomly selected developed countries from non-MENA regions. Projecting to 2026, incidence rates of MM in Lebanon are expected to rise in both males and females. CONCLUSION: Incidence of MM in Lebanon is continually rising. The elderly population, especially males, is much more affected than the younger one. Different risk factors, specifically obesity and toxic exposures, can explain the escalating burden of MM among the population. A collaboration of efforts between the government and health organization is expected for an effective disease control.

A 12-Year Comparative Analysis of Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas in Lebanon: Trend Characteristics and 10-Year Projections.

Background  Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are two common malignancies worldwide and in Lebanon. Analysis of their trends plays a crucial role to better understand their origins and risk factors. This study will probe incidences of both types of lymphomas from 2005 to 2016, aiming to compare between the two malignancies according to age and sex and plot projections until 2026. Methods HL and NHL cases from 2005 to 2016 were collected from the National Cancer Registry of Lebanon. Data was stratified according to age and sex. Age-specific and age-standardized incidence rates were analysed using joinpoint regression; 10-year projections were predicted based on logarithmic models. Results Between 2005 and 2016, NHL was significantly more common than HL. NHL was higher in both genders. HL showed a bimodal age distribution while NHL peaked in elderly patients. NHL incidence rates in males increased significantly from 2005 to 2014 while HL incidence rates showed an insignificant rise. Over the next 10 years, NHL and HL cases are expected to increase in Lebanon. Conclusion HL and NHL are on the rise in Lebanon. Extensive research into the main factors contributing to these lymphomas is crucial in the fight against them. More efforts must be done by the government and health organizations to better control the disease.