Informational Evaluation of Epidemiological Aspects of Prostate Cancer Cases Among Citizens of Saint Petersburg

Abstract

Introduction. Prostate cancer ranks first among all malignant neoplasms in men. The use of information and analytical tools in comprehending the results of examining and treating verified prostate cancer cases in St. Petersburg is important for implementing measures to increase life expectancy and to improve the quality of men’s health. Materials and methods. We analyzed indicator medical statistics on prostate cancer cases in St. Petersburg in 2013–2017 based on the municipal population cancer registry data. Results. The results showed that the increase in prostate cancer incidence rates in the city was not related to poor quality of medical examination or treatment. The latter remained appropriate and was ensured by the proper level of modernization of technological and organizational methods for providing medical care to such patients. Successful mastering of innovative information techniques of cancer data analysis by local specialists is one of the prerequisites for efficient cancer prevention with a full-fledged implementation of actions envisaged by the Russian Healthcare Development Program. Conclusions. Some quality indicators of St. Petersburg oncology service in terms of providing medical care to prostate cancer patients are comparable to those in other Russian regions or turn out to the best in some respects. Targeted measures taken by the City Administration and its Health Department to promote a healthy lifestyle and to inform the citizens about dangers of prostate cancer yield positive results.