Comparison of relative frequency of basal cell carcinoma in 1368-69 and 1378-79, in Razi Hospital, Tehran

Background and aim:Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer in whites. The most important risk factor for developing BCC is solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. As the weather in most parts of Iran is mostly sunny, BCC is common. This study was performed to evaluate changes in the frequency of BCC in 1368-69 and 1378-79.Materials and Methods: This descriptive and retrospective study was performed as an existing data study and all files in department of pathology in Razi Hospital from 1368-69 and 1378-79 were assessed with regards of BCC frequency, patient age and gender as well as history of radiation and the collected data were compared.Results: A total of 1503 BCCs were studied, 507 were from 1368-69 and 996 from 1378-79 period. In the years 1368-69, relative frequency of BCC was 11.1%. On the other hand in years 1378-79 relative frequency of BCC was increased to 15.2%, which was not associated with gender. BCC occurance showed a significant decrease in 20-30-year age group and a significant increase in over 60 years age group. Among histologic subtypes, nodular form showed an increase, which was statistically significant on face region (P<0.005), but was not linked to patient gender. In male patients significant decrease of BCC frequency on face and increase on head and neck areas was observed, but there was not any significant change in tumor location in female patients.Conclusion:During a 10-year period the frequency of BCC has increased significantly requiring more attention to develop educational programs regarding prevention, diagnosis and early treatment.