The Influence of COVID-19 on New Lung Cancer Diagnoses, by Stage and Treatment, in Northern Italy

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on new cancer diagnoses. This study aims to evaluate the implications of the lockdown period on new lung cancer diagnoses in northern Italy. We compared 2020 with 2019 cancer registry data, reporting the variations by age, stage, and treatments. In 2020, 303 lung cancer cases were registered, 21 fewer than in 2019. Cases fell in men (−31 patients, 9.6%) but not in women (+10 patients, +3.1%). A significant drop in stage I from 19.8% to 12.9% (p < 0.05) and an increase in stage III (12.7% vs. 19.1%; p < 0.05) was observed. Histological confirmation dropped (70.1% vs. 60.1%; p < 0.05) while cytology increased (12% vs. 20.8%; p < 0.01). Surgery declined (28.7% vs. 21.5%; p < 0.05) but increased in stage III (19.5% vs. 25.9%; p = 0.46), while chemotherapy increased (17.6% vs. 34.3%; p < 0.01) for all stages. During the pandemic, new lung cancer diagnoses dropped only in men. The reorganization of health services has ensured a decrease in surgical interventions (due to the unavailability of operating rooms) counterbalanced by an increase in chemotherapy.

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“…A study in northern Italy found a 6.5% decrease in lung cancer diagnoses in 2020, compared with 2019. 10 Results differed by sex, with a decrease among males (−9.6%) but not females (+3.1%). 10 In addition, there was a decrease in diagnosis of stage 1 disease (19.8% v. 12.9%) with an associated increase in diagnosis of stage III disease (12.7% v. 19.1%).…”

“… 10 In addition, there was a decrease in diagnosis of stage 1 disease (19.8% v. 12.9%) with an associated increase in diagnosis of stage III disease (12.7% v. 19.1%). 10 Surgery decreased from 28.7% to 21.5% and chemotherapy increased from 17.6% to 34.3%. 10 …”