Adult lung cancer in southern Africa: epidemiology and aetiology

Introduction Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide,1 with lung cancer being the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. In developed countries national data are collected and collated into large databases detailing the incidence of all cancers; the incidence of lung cancer is then compared with other cancers in order to gauge its overall incidence. Lung cancer in the UK is an increasing problem, and is now the second most common cause of death with an overall incidence of 41.4 per 100 000.2 However in southern Africa lung cancer is less common and comprehensive data are lacking.3 In southern Africa the incidence of lung cancer and its mortality rate remain low in comparison with other cancers and respiratory diseases,4 with a rate of lung cancer in South Africa of 5.8 per 100 000, compared with 32.7 per 100 000 for oesophageal cancer.5 Due to the increasing availability of cigarettes, the lack of anti-smoking campaigns, urbanisation, and changes in lifestyle, the incidence of lung cancer is likely to be on the rise.6 This article aims to review current literature on the burden and causes of lung cancer in southern Africa and highlight areas that may require intervention or further research.