The American Cancer Society (ACS) has partnered with hospitals and imaging facilities across Delaware to present National Lung Cancer Screening Day (NLCSD) as a statewide event. On Saturday, November 11, representatives from the Bureau of Cancer Prevention and Control within the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will be on-site at several imaging facilities. Delaware is the first state to have all the health systems and major imaging facilities formally collaborate to support lung cancer screening and open weekend hours to address screening barriers for those that can’t make it Monday through Friday.

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer and is estimated to claim the lives of over 127,000 Americans this year. According to the latest Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware report, lung and bronchus cancer was the leading cause of death from cancer in the First State (38.4 deaths per 100,000 population) in 2016-2020. Lung and bronchus cancer are also the third most common type of cancer (56.9 cases per 100,000 population) following prostate and female breast cancer. Only a small percentage of individuals get recommended screening tests, and 1 in 10 people at higher risk get screened nationwide.

The partnership with ACS asks that healthcare providers open their doors on the second Saturday in November for low-dose CT lung screenings (LDCT). By opening on a Saturday, individuals who have already been referred for LDCT can access screening without having to take a day off work. It will also raise awareness among those in the community who may not know about early detection of lung cancer.

“We are excited to help host Lung Cancer Screening Day and bring together the community to prioritize lung health,” said Cancer Prevention and Control Bureau Chief Dawn Hollinger. “By increasing awareness and providing access to screenings, we aim to save lives by detecting lung cancer at its earliest stages when treatment options are most effective.”

LDCT screenings are quick, painless and can help save lives. The following locations offer lung cancer screenings to Delawareans during National LCS Day: 

• Bayhealth

302-744-7060 (Kent County)

302-430-5707 (Sussex County)

www.bayhealth.org

 

• Beebe Healthcare

302-645-3278

www.beebehealthcare.org

 

• ChristianaCare

302-623-0552

www.christianacare.org/lung-screenings

 

• Delaware Imaging Network

877-990-2121

www.delawareimagingnetwork.com

 

• TidalHealth

410-543-7006

www.tidalhealth.org

For more locations, visit the Lung Cancer Screening Locator Tool at https://www.acr.org/Clinical-Resources/Lung-Cancer-Screening-Resources/LCS-Locator-Tool.

To participate in National Lung Cancer Screening Day in Delaware, individuals are encouraged to contact their local healthcare provider to determine their eligibility and schedule an appointment. It is important to note that screening eligibility criteria may vary, but generally include individuals aged 55 to 80 who have a history of smoking or exposure to environmental risk factors.

The National Lung Cancer Screening Day aims to stimulate screening across the board. Health systems, clinicians and patients are encouraged to make lung cancer screening a year-round priority rather than waiting until November. For more information, visit https://www.healthydelaware.org/individuals/cancer/lung#intro or https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html.

DOVER, DE (Oct. 10, 2022) – Delaware’s cancer mortality, or death, rate has further declined, according to the latest cancer data from the Division of Public Health (DPH).  Between 2005 and 2019, mortality rates for cancer at all locations throughout the body, known as all-site cancer, decreased an average of 1.7% per year in both Delaware and the U.S. The state remains 15th highest in the U.S. for the timeframe of 2015-2019, which is unchanged from previous periods.  Delaware also ranks 13th highest nationally for cancer incidence during the same period.  

DPH presented its data report, Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2015-2019, to the Delaware Cancer Consortium (DCC) on October 10.  These cancer statistics reflect incidence and mortality data for the five-year period 2015-2019.  The report includes new incidence and mortality tables for all-site cancer and 23 site-specific cancer types. The tables include age-adjusted rates for cancer type by both gender and race with comparative U.S. statistics. 

DPH compares Delaware’s cancer incidence and mortality statistics for 2015-2019 to those of the U.S. over the same period.  DPH also summarizes how Delaware and U.S. cancer rates have changed from 2005 to 2019.

Additionally, DPH issued a compendium report, Census Tract-Level Cancer Incidence in Delaware, 2015-2019, which presents incidence rates for all-site cancer by census tract.  In the 15-year period between 2005 and 2019, incidence rates for all-site cancer decreased an average of 1.1% per year in Delaware and an average of 0.7% per year in the U.S.  While progress continues to be made, Delaware’s 2015-2019 all-site cancer incidence rate (468.8 per 100,000 population) remains 4% higher than the comparable U.S. rate (449.0 per 100,000 population).  Delaware currently ranks 13th among the states for highest all-site cancer incidence. Delaware has improved in rankings over the last two five-year periods measured – 8th in 2014-2018 and 13th in 2015-2019. Prior to these years, Delaware had been ranked 2nd for incidence cancer rates for some time.  A portion of the most recent progress may be attributed to fewer people accessing screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This report includes new comprehensive cancer tables for all cancer sites combined (all-site cancer), as well as the 23 top site-specific cancer types for both incidence and mortality, Cancer Incidence and Mortality Data Tables for Delaware, 2015-2019. The tables include age-adjusted rates for cancer type by both gender and race along with comparative statistics to the U.S.

Between 2005 and 2019, incidence rates for all-site cancer decreased an average of 1.8% per year among non-Hispanic White males and remained stable for non-Hispanic White females.  During that same period, incidence rates for all-site cancer decreased an average of 3.1% per year among non-Hispanic Black males and remained stable for non-Hispanic Black females. Between 2005 and 2019, incidence rates for all-site cancer were stable among both Hispanic males and Hispanic females. 

“It’s important that Delawareans get their recommended cancer screenings, and I encourage everyone to learn when to get yours, said Governor Carney. “We know that the earlier cancer is detected, the more treatable it is. I commend the Delaware Cancer Consortium and the Division of Public Health for coordinating our state’s cancer prevention advocacy and education. After decades of dedicated early detection and screening, it’s reassuring to see improvement in certain areas.”

Between 2005 and 2019, mortality rates for all-site cancer decreased an average of 1.7% per year in both Delaware and the U.S. Delaware’s current ranking of 15th among the states for highest all-site cancer mortality is the same ranking as in the 2021 report, which examined the 2013-2017 time period. This represents considerable continued progress since the 1990s, when the state ranked second.    

Between 2005 and 2019, mortality rates for all-site cancer decreased by an average of 1.6% per year among non-Hispanic White males and decreased an average of 1.8% per year among non-Hispanic White females. Between 2005 and 2019, mortality rates for all-site cancer decreased an average of 2.5% per year among non-Hispanic Black males and remained stable for non-Hispanic Black females. Between 2005 and 2019, all-site cancer mortality rates were stable among both Hispanic males and females.                                                                                                           

“The data show us clearly that early screening and prevention are critical for bringing down cancer mortality rates. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many people to delay cancer screenings and other preventive chronic disease care, and economically disadvantaged communities are typically impacted the most,” said Molly Magarik, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. “Free cancer screenings are available to eligible Delawareans, and we know they can lead to earlier diagnosis and to saving lives.”  

The top four cancers for incidence are: female breast (136.1 per 100,000 population), prostate (125.9 per 100,000 population), lung and bronchus (61.7 per 100,000 population), colorectal (37.1 per 100,000 population). The top four cancers for mortality are: lung and bronchus (40.9 per 100,000 population), female breast (21.2 per 100,000 population), prostate (17.0 per 100,000 population) and colorectal (13.0 per 100,000 population). These are also the same trends in the U.S.  

Among females, breast cancer had the highest incidence (136.1 per 100,000 population) and lung cancer had the highest mortality (34.5 per 100,000 population). Among males, prostate cancer had the highest incidence (125.9 per 100,000 population) and lung cancer had the highest mortality (49.1 per 100,000 population).  

Among the top four cancers affecting Delaware, non-Hispanic Black Delawareans are disproportionately more affected by breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers compared to non-Hispanic White and Hispanic Delawareans.  Lung cancer affects more non-Hispanic White Delawareans.  

Non-Hispanic Black women (27.5 per 100,000 population) have a higher mortality rate for breast cancer compared to non-Hispanic White women (20.5 per 100,000 population). Non-Hispanic Black men (32.5 per 100,000 population) have a higher mortality rate for prostate cancer compared to non-Hispanic White men (14.9 per 100,000 population).  Non-Hispanic White Delawareans die from lung cancer at a higher rate (43.0 per 100,000 population) compared to non-Hispanic Black (39.8 per 100,000 population) and Hispanic (18.8 per 100,000 population) Delawareans.    

“We are encouraged at the reductions in cancer incidence and mortality seen among Black male Delawareans when it comes to all-site cancer,” said Interim DPH Director Dr. Rick Hong. “Despite this, we know that disparities continue to exist, and DPH is committed to working to reduce those disparities by addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to them.”

 

RESOURCES  

 

• In addition to cancer data, the Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2015-2019 report also includes information about screening and historical data trends. The Census Tract-Level Cancer Incidence in Delaware, 2015-2019 compendium report presents analyses of all-site cancer incidence rates by census tract. The Cancer Incidence and Mortality Data Tables for Delaware, 2015-2019 provides a quick view of the 23 top site-specific cancer types for both incidence and mortality.
• To learn how to prevent, detect, and treat chronic diseases and obtain assistance with a cancer screening, visit the Healthy Delaware website at HealthyDelaware.org or call the Delaware Comprehensive Cancer Control Program at 302-744-1040. For more information about the DCC, visit https://www.healthydelaware.org/Consortium.
• The Screening for Life (SFL) program provides payment for cancer screening tests to qualified Delaware adults. Eligible individuals can receive mammograms and clinical breast exams, Pap tests and screening tests for prostate, colorectal, and lung cancer when recommended by a doctor. SFL also provides lung cancer screenings for eligible men and women. Contact SFL at https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/sfl.html or call 302-744-1040 to speak with a screening nurse navigator.
• Delaware residents 18 and older who want help quitting smoking should contact the Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858 or QuitSupport.com. 
• For population health, environmental and social determinants of health data at the smallest geographical area available, visit the My Healthy Community data portal at de.gov/healthycommunity. 

 

###

 

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, is a nationally accredited public health agency recognized by the Public Health Accreditation Board for its outstanding dedication to driving change through innovation. DPH is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind, or speech-disabled can contact DPH by first dialing 711 using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free; to learn more about how it works, visit delawarerelay.com.

DOVER, DEL. (Oct. 11, 2021) – According to the latest cancer data from the Division of Public Health (DPH), Delaware’s mortality rate for all cancer sites combined (all-site cancer) improved in most categories during the last decade; however, the state remains 15th-highest in the U.S. for the timeframe of 2013-2017, which is unchanged from 2012-2016. Delaware also remains second-highest nationally for all-site cancer incidence during the same period, which may be partly due to the state’s continued increases in early detection and screening.

DPH presented its data report, Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2013-2017, to the Delaware Cancer Consortium (DCC) on Monday. The annual report seeks to compare Delaware’s cancer incidence and mortality trends for 2013-2017 to those of the U.S. over the same period. DPH also summarizes how Delaware and U.S. cancer rates have changed from the five-year periods of 2003-2007 to 2013-2017. This year’s report analyzes all-site cancer and eight site-specific cancer types: breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, kidney, leukemia, oral and prostate.

DPH also issued a new compendium report, Census Tract-Level Cancer Incidence in Delaware, 2013-2017, which replaces previous secondary analysis reports. This report presents modified calculations and detailed maps with all-site cancer incidence rates by census tract.

From 2003-2007 to 2013-2017 in Delaware, all-site cancer mortality rates decreased 26% among non-Hispanic African American males and 15% among non-Hispanic Caucasian males, yet increased 18% among Hispanic males. Among Delaware females during the same period, all-site cancer mortality rates decreased 12% among non-Hispanic African Americans, 15% among non-Hispanic Caucasians, and 12% among Hispanics. DPH attributes these decreases to screening and early detection.

“After decades of dedicated early detection and screening efforts by a wide array of partners, it’s reassuring to see improvement in certain areas,” Governor John Carney said. “I commend the Delaware Cancer Consortium and the Division of Public Health for expertly coordinating our state’s cancer prevention advocacy and education. I also thank those Delawareans who get their recommended cancer screenings, and encourage everyone to do the same.”

For 2013-2017, the state’s all-site cancer mortality rate (171.0 deaths per 100,000 people) was higher than the U.S. rate (158.3 deaths per 100,000). Also, for 2013-2017:

Delaware males (204.1 per 100,000) ranked 17th for all-site cancer mortality (18th in 2012-2016) and had higher rates compared to U.S. males (189.5 per 100,000).

Delaware females (146.3.1 per 100,000) had a higher all-site cancer mortality rate compared to U.S. females (135.7 per 100,000) and ranked 17th for all-site cancer mortality, an improvement from 14th in 2012-2016.

“The data show us clearly that early screening and prevention are critical for bringing down cancer mortality rates. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many people to delay cancer screenings and other preventive chronic disease care, and economically disadvantaged communities are typically impacted the most,” said Molly Magarik, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. “Free cancer screenings are available to eligible Delawareans and we know they can lead to earlier diagnosis and to saving lives.”

Regarding incidence or diagnosis of new cancer cases, in 2013-2017, there were nearly 29,000 new cancer cases diagnosed in Delaware, a slight increase from the 28,581 cases in 2012-2016 . Of those cases, 51% of those diagnosed were male, and 78% were non-Hispanic Caucasians. Delaware saw statistically higher rates (484.3 per 100,000) for all-site cancer incidence than the U.S. (435.0 per 100,000). Also, for 2013-2017:

Delaware males (531.5 per 100,000) had a higher all-site cancer incidence rate compared to U.S. males (472.9 per 100,000), ranking fourth nationally, an improvement from third in 2012-2016.
Delaware females (450.8 per 100,000) had a higher rate of all-site cancer incidence in 2013-2017 compared to U.S. females (410.5 per 100,000); their ranking improved to ninth from fifth in 2012-2016.
Noticeable improvements exist among many racial and ethnic groups, likely due to Delaware’s health equity initiatives. While there was no significant statistical difference in all-site cancer incidence rates between non-Hispanic Caucasians (496.9 per 100,00) and non-Hispanic African Americans (485.5 per 100,000) in the 2013-2017 period, Hispanics (389.1 per 100,000) had a lower all-site cancer incidence rate compared to both non-Hispanic Caucasians and non-Hispanic African Americans.

In Delaware, from 2003-2007 to 2013-2017, all-site cancer incidence rates decreased 12% among non-Hispanic Caucasian males, 22% among non-Hispanic African-American males, and12% in Hispanic males. For females during the same 10-year period, the all-site cancer incidence rate decreased 9% among Hispanic females, but increased 3% among non-Hispanic Caucasians and less than 1% among non-Hispanic African Americans.

“In order to address the disparities that persist in cancer incidence and mortality, we must address the circumstances in which people are born, grow up, live, work, and age and the systems put in place to deal with illness,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “These social determinants of health include housing and neighborhood conditions, educational and economic factors, transportation systems, social connections, and other social factors. We must look at the racial disparities across the cancer continuum from prevention to end-of-life care that result from differences in the social determinants of health as no longer endurable.”

BREAST CANCER

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Delaware. In 2013-2017:

From 2003-2007 to 2013-2017, female breast cancer mortality in Delaware decreased 2%, compared to the U.S. decline of 15%.
Female breast cancer incidence rate for Delaware (135.4 per 100,000) was higher than the U.S. female rate (126.8 per 100,000).
Delaware’s percent of female breast cancer cases diagnosed at the local stage increased from 42% in 1980-1984 to 68% in 2013-2017.
Delaware females 40 years of age and older who reported having a mammogram within the previous two years ranked third-highest nationally (79%) in the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey.
COLORECTAL CANCER

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and Delaware. Delaware ranked 11th-highest in prevalence in the U.S. for meeting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force colorectal screening recommendations. In addition:

Between 2003-2007 and 2013-2017, incidence rates for colorectal cancer decreased by 26% in Delaware and 21% in the U.S.
During the same 10-year time period, mortality rates for colorectal cancer decreased by 21% both in Delaware and in the U.S.
Nearly 73% of Delawareans age 50-74 years reported meeting the recommendations, more than the national median of 70%.
For 2013-2017 in Delaware, non-Hispanic African Americans (44.6 per 100,000) had a statistically higher colorectal cancer incidence rate compared to non-Hispanic Caucasians (37.6 per 100,000).
Non-Hispanic Caucasians accounted for 78% of colorectal cancer deaths in Delaware in 2013-2017.
LUNG CANCER

Lung cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the most common cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. and Delaware. In addition:

Delaware males (75.7 per 100,000) had a higher lung cancer incidence rate compared to Delaware females (61.3 per 100,000).
Delaware’s 2013-2017 lung cancer incidence rate improved to 17th, compared to 10th in 2012-2016.
Delaware’s 2013-2017 lung cancer mortality rank improved to 16th from 14th in 2012-2016.
Non-Hispanic Caucasians accounted for 82% of lung cancer cases in 2013-2017.
Hispanics (29.1 per 100,000) had a lower lung cancer incidence rate compared to both non-Hispanic Caucasians (70.7 per 100,000) and non-Hispanic African Americans (65.5 per 100,000).
Over the past decade, cancer incidence rates decreased among all sex, race, and ethnic groups. From 2003-2007 to 2013-2017 in Delaware, lung cancer incidence rates decreased:

· 21% in non-Hispanic Caucasian males

· 11% in non-Hispanic Caucasian females

· 31% in non-Hispanic African-American males

· 13% in non-Hispanic African-American females

· 45% in Hispanic males

· 55% in Hispanic females

 

PROSTATE CANCER

Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among males in the U.S. and Delaware. According to the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFS), 33% of Delaware males 40 and older reported having a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test in the past two years, compared to the national median prevalence of 32%. In addition:

Between 2003-2007 and 2013-2017, prostate cancer incidence rates decreased by 30% in Delaware and 33% in the U.S.
Between 2003-2007 and 2013-2017, mortality rates for prostate cancer decreased by 31% in Delaware and 24% in the U.S.
In 2013-2017, Delaware’s non-Hispanic African Americans (205.8 per 100,000) had a much higher prostate cancer incidence rate compared to non-Hispanic Caucasians (110.3 per 100,000) and Hispanics (114.3 per 100,000).
Non-Hispanic African Americans (34.1 per 100,000) in Delaware had a higher prostate cancer mortality rate in 2013-2017 compared to Delaware’s non-Hispanic Caucasians (14.2 per 100,000).

CERVICAL CANCER

Cervical cancer accounted for 1% of all female cancer cases in Delaware in 2013-2017. According to the BRFS, 83% of Delaware women 21-65 years of age reported that they had had a Pap test within the previous three years, compared to the national median of 80% among U.S. women of the same ages. In addition:

Delaware ranked 20th in the U.S. for cervical cancer incidence, a six-place improvement from 14th in 2012-2016.
Non-Hispanic Caucasians accounted for 70% of Delaware’s cervical cancer cases in 2013-2017.
Non-Hispanic Caucasian females (48%) had a higher proportion of cervical cancer diagnosed at the local stage compared to non-Hispanic African American females (35%).
In 2013-2017, Delaware’s cervical cancer mortality rate (2.6 per 100,000) was not statistically significantly different from the U.S. cervical cancer mortality rate (2.3 per 100,000).

RESOURCES

 

In addition to cancer data, the Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2013-2017 report also includes information about risk factors, screening, state of diagnosis, data trends, and cancer survivorship. The Census Tract-Level Cancer Incidence in Delaware, 2013-2017 compendium report presents analyses of all-site cancer incidence rates by census tract.

For more information about DPH’s cancer prevention and treatment work, visit https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/cancer.html or call the Delaware Comprehensive Cancer Control Program at 302-744-1020. For more information about the DCC, visit https://www.healthydelaware.org/Consortium. To learn how to prevent, detect, and treat chronic diseases and obtain assistance with a cancer screening, visit the Healthy Delaware website at HealthyDelaware.org.

The Screening for Life (SFL) program provides payment for cancer screening tests to qualified Delaware adults. Eligible individuals can receive office visits, mammograms and clinical breast exams, Pap tests and screening tests for prostate, colorectal, and lung cancer when recommended by a doctor. SFL also provides lung cancer screenings for eligible men and women. Contact SFL at https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/sfl.html or call 302-401-4212 to speak with a screening nurse navigator.

Delaware residents 18 and older who want help quitting smoking should contact the Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858 or QuitSupport.com.

For population health, environmental and social determinant of health data at the smallest geographical area available, visit the My Healthy Community data portal at de.gov/healthycommunity.

DOVER (October 12, 2020) – Over the last decade, Delaware’s mortality rate for all cancer sites combined (all-site cancer) declined 10 percent between the five-year periods of 2002-2006 and 2012-2016, according to the latest cancer data released by the Division of Public Health (DPH). In the same time span, Delaware’s all-site cancer mortality rate also declined for African-American males and females and Hispanic females. Additionally, mortality rates decreased for female breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

“After years of work, the data reflects our efforts to have more Delawareans get important cancer screenings,” said Governor John Carney. “We know that the earlier cancer is detected, the more treatable it is. In addition to screenings, I urge everyone to make healthier lifestyle choices, as smoking, vaping, and being overweight or obese, are among our greatest risks for developing cancer.” Governor Carney also praised the ongoing work of the Delaware Cancer Consortium (DCC) and DPH for coordinating cancer advocacy efforts.

DPH presented its data report, Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2012-2016, to the DCC in Dover on Monday. The report provides data for all-site cancer and eight site-specific cancer types: breast, colorectal, lung, melanoma, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, prostate, thyroid, and uterine.

Among Delaware males from 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, all-site cancer mortality rates decreased 29 percent among non-Hispanic African-Americans and 16 percent among non-Hispanic Caucasians, yet increased 19 percent in Hispanic males. Among Delaware females from 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, all-site cancer mortality rates decreased 13 percent among non-Hispanic African Americans, 11 percent among non-Hispanic Caucasians, and 4 percent among Hispanics. DPH attributed the decreases in all-site cancer mortality among these racial and ethnic groups to increased screening and early detection efforts.

“We are working diligently to reduce the health disparities faced by many of our communities of color,” said DHSS Secretary Molly Magarik. “By focusing on the important role of screening and prevention along with population health, I’m confident that we will see greater improvement in achieving health equity for all Delawareans.”

In the short term, Delaware ranked 15th highest in the U.S. for all-site cancer mortality in the most recent five-year period of 2012-2016, a decline compared to its rank of 18 in the five-year period of 2011-2015. Since the U.S. all-site cancer mortality rate statistically significantly decreased in 2012-2016, it may have impacted Delaware’s 2012-2016 rank. For 2012-2016, the state’s all-site cancer mortality rate (174.0 deaths per 100,000 people) was 8 percent higher than the U.S. rate (161.1 deaths per 100,000) a statistically significant difference. Also for 2012-2016:

• Delaware males (206.8 per 100,000) ranked 18th for all-site cancer mortality; a statistically significantly higher rate compared to U.S. males (193.3 per 100,000).
• Delaware males had a statistically significantly higher all-site cancer mortality rate than Delaware females (150.1 per 100,000).
• Delaware females had a statistically significantly higher all-site cancer mortality rate compared to U.S. females (137.8 per 100,000) and were ranked 14th for all-site cancer mortality in 2012-2016 (no change from 2011-2015).

Regarding incidence, or diagnosis of new cancer cases, in 2012-2016, Delaware (491.5 per 100,000) remained ranked second-highest nationally for all-site cancer incidence, which was statistically significantly higher than the U.S. (435.1 per 100,000). Delaware males (542.9 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly higher all-site cancer incidence rate compared to Delaware females (455.4 per 100,000). Delaware males rank third compared to U.S. males (474.3 per 100,000) and Delaware females rank fifth in the U.S. compared to U.S. females (409.6 per 100,000). The success of Delaware’s screening programs is part of the reason cancers are being identified, and leading in part, to the state’s continued No. 2 ranking for cancer incidence. However, DPH officials are concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to adverse impacts in the future.

“Many people had to delay getting cancer screenings due to COVID-19, so it’s possible that some people’s cancers are not being caught as early as they otherwise might be,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “I strongly encourage Delawareans to make their appointments now to get caught up on recommended screenings. We’ve made it easy to find and schedule cancer screening appointments with a phone call or a few clicks at HealthyDelaware.org.”

To encourage women to get screened for breast cancer, DPH’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program worked tirelessly with DCC and community leaders to reach racial and ethnic minorities through their providers, hair stylists, churches, and other organizations. DPH and DCC initiated patient navigation services for women age 40-64 and asked providers to send patient reminders, display educational posters, and show informative videos to alleviate any fears of getting a mammogram. Eighty-one percent of non-Hispanic African-American females and 79 percent of non-Hispanic Caucasian females 40 years of age and older in Delaware reported having a mammogram within the previous two years, according to the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFS). All Delaware females 40 years of age and older ranked third highest nationally (79 percent) for this indicator.

BREAST CANCER

In 2012-2016, Delaware (22.1 per 100,000) ranked 20th for breast cancer mortality compared to 21st in 2011-2015; the Delaware rate was not statistically significantly different from the U.S. rate (20.6 per 100,000). From 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, female breast cancer mortality in Delaware decreased 6 percent, compared to the U.S. decline of 16 percent. The 2012-2016 female breast cancer incidence rate for Delaware (136.5 per 100,000) was statistically significantly higher than the U.S. female rate (126.0 per 100,000). Delaware’s percent of female breast cancer cases diagnosed at the local stage increased from 42 percent in 1980-1984 to 68 percent in 2012-2016.

COLORECTAL CANCER

Delaware ranked 11th-highest in prevalence in the U.S. for meeting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force colorectal screening recommendations. Nearly 73 percent of Delawareans age 50-74 years reported meeting the recommendations, more than the national median of 70 percent. Incidence: Delaware’s 2012-2016 ranking for colorectal cancer incidence is 31st (38th in 2011-2015). In Delaware, colorectal cancer cases diagnosed at the local stage increased from 32 percent in 1980-1984 to 40 percent in 2012-2016. From 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, Delaware’s colorectal cancer incidence rate decreased 28 percent compared to a 22 percent decrease in the U.S. Also, Delaware’s colorectal cancer incidence rates declined more than the U.S. rates for both males and females. Mortality: While the state’s colorectal cancer mortality rate has historically been higher than the U.S. rate, in 2012-2016, Delaware’s colorectal cancer mortality rate (13.7 per 100,000) was lower than that of the U.S. (14.2 per 100,000). Delaware ranked 35th nationally for colorectal cancer mortality in 2012-2016 (41st in 2011-2015).

LUNG CANCER

As the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. and Delaware, lung cancer continues to account for an enormous share of the state’s overall cancer burden. For 2012-2016, lung cancer accounted for 15 percent of all newly diagnosed cancer cases and 28 percent of all cancer deaths in Delaware. DPH and the DCC continue to encourage providers to refer tobacco users to lung cancer screening and the Delaware Quitline, the state’s tobacco cessation program. They continue to educate the general public on lung cancer screenings and the importance of quitting tobacco and vaping.

Delaware saw slight increases in lung cancers diagnosed in the earlier stages before the cancer spreads to distant tissues, organs, or lymph nodes and is more difficult to treat. Fifty percent of Delaware’s lung cancers in 2012-2016 were diagnosed at distant stage, compared to 52 percent in the U.S. In 2012-2016, Delaware (69.7 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly higher lung cancer incidence rate compared to the U.S. (53.4 per 100,000). Delaware males (79.1 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly higher lung cancer incidence rate compared to Delaware females (62.9 per 100,000) and to U.S. males (61.9 per 100,000). Delaware females had a statistically significantly higher lung cancer incidence rate compared to U.S. females (47.0 per 100,000) in 2012-2016. In 2012-2016, Delaware Hispanics (30.8 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly lower lung cancer incidence rate compared to both non-Hispanic Caucasians (72.5 per 100,000) and non-Hispanic African Americans (69.2 per 100,000).

Regarding mortality, Delaware (48.4 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly higher lung cancer mortality rate compared to the U.S. (41.9 per 100,000) in 2012-2016. Delaware females (41.0 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly higher lung cancer mortality rate compared to U.S. females (34.4 per 100,000). In the longer term, from 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, lung cancer mortality rates decreased 19 percent in Delaware and 22 percent in the U.S.

PROSTATE CANCER

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among males in the U.S. and Delaware. Delaware ranked eighth nationally in the prevalence of males 40 years of and older who have had a protein-specific antigen (PSA) test within the past two years. According to the 2018 BRFS, 38 percent of Delaware males 40 and older reported having a PSA test in the past two years, compared to the national median prevalence of 33 percent. Delaware’s prostate cancer incidence rate decreased by 27 percent between 2002-2006 and 2012-2016, compared to a 34 percent decrease in the U.S. Delaware’s 2012-2016 prostate cancer incidence rate (129.1 per 100,000) was statistically significantly higher than the U.S. (106.8 per 100,000) – trends that likely reflect a greater prevalence of prostate cancer screening. In Delaware in 2012-2016, non-Hispanic Caucasians accounted for 69 percent of prostate cancer cases.

Regarding mortality, from 2002-2006 to 2012-2016, the prostate cancer mortality rate decreased 34 percent in Delaware and 26 percent in the U.S. Also, Delaware’s prostate cancer mortality rank improved from 43rd in 2011-2015 to 46th in 2012-2016. Non-Hispanic Caucasians in Delaware (15.3 per 100,000) had a statistically significantly lower prostate cancer mortality rate compared to the U.S. (18.1 per 100,000) in 2012-2016. However, non-Hispanic African Americans (33.8 per 100,000) in Delaware had a statistically significantly higher prostate cancer mortality rate in 2012-2016 compared to Delaware’s non-Hispanic Caucasians – a disparity similarly seen in the U.S. (U.S. non-Hispanic African Americans: 39.8 per 100,000; U.S. Caucasians: 18.1 per 100,000).

MALIGNANT MELANOMA

While Delaware’s incidence rank of malignant melanoma of the skin (“malignant melanoma”) improved from third in 2011-2015 to fifth in 2012-2016, its 2012-2016 incidence rate (29.9 per 100,000) is statistically significantly higher compared to the U.S. (23.2 per 100,000). Between 2002-2006 and 2012-2016, malignant melanoma incidence rates increased 35 percent in Delaware and 17 percent in the U.S. In 2012-2016 in Delaware, 76 percent of malignant melanomas were diagnosed at the local stage. Regarding mortality, Delaware’s malignant melanoma mortality rank improved from 15th in 2011-2015 to 18th in 2012-2016 and for Delaware males, it improved from 21st in 2011-2015 to 25th in 2012-2016. However, among Delaware females, the malignant melanoma mortality rank worsened from sixth in 2011-2015 to third in 2012-2016.

“Since malignant melanoma can develop over 30 to 40 years, it is important to prevent blistering sunburns, especially in children, because that doubles the risk,” Dr. Rattay said. “In addition to avoiding the sun year-round between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Delawareans should wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, cover up with clothing, and wear sunglasses and a hat with a wide brim. Communities should consider installing sun-protective covers over play areas. Do not delay seeing a dermatologist if you observe changes to the skin.”

RESOURCES

In addition to cancer incidence and mortality data, the Cancer Incidence and Mortality Report, 2012-2016 includes information about risk factors, screening, state of diagnosis, data trends, and a section on cancer survivorship in Delaware. The full report is available at: www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/files/iandm2012-2016.pdf. A secondary analysis of all-site cancer incidence rates by census tract accompanies the report and can be found at: www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/files/ct_analysis2012-2016.pdf.

For more information about DPH’s cancer prevention and treatment work, visit www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/cancer.html or call the Delaware Comprehensive Cancer Control Program at 302-744-1020. For more information about the DCC, including its recommendations, visit www.healthydelaware.org/Consortium. To learn how to prevent, detect, and treat chronic diseases, visit the Healthy Delaware website: HealthyDelaware.org.

Delaware’s cancer survivors can access insurance and cancer treatment needs from the Health Care Connection at https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/chap.html) or call 2-1-1; and from Delaware’s Cancer Treatment Program at https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/catreatment.html or call 1-844-245-9580. For cancer follow-up and maintenance, visit the Cancer: Thriving and Surviving program (https://www.healthydelaware.org) or the Live Strong program at the YMCA (www.ymcade.org/livestrong/).

Individuals at high risk for lung cancer who should get a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan are those who are 55-74 years of age and in fairly good health, have a smoking history equivalent to a pack a day for 30 years or longer, and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. They can access CT screening criteria and scheduling directions at HealthyDelaware.org/lung or call 302-401-4212 to speak with a screening nurse navigator.

Providers in search of free lung cancer screening materials should visit www.healthydelaware.org/Healthcare-Providers/Cancer/Lung.
Delaware tobacco users seeking help quitting can contact the Delaware Quitline, a free tobacco cessation counseling hotline through the Delaware Tobacco Prevention and Control Program. Delaware residents 18 and older can reach Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858 or http://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/quitline.html.

The Screening for Life program (www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/sfl.html) provides payment for cancer screening tests to qualified Delaware adults. Eligible individuals can receive office visits, mammograms and clinical breast exams, Pap tests, screening tests for prostate, colorectal and lung cancer when recommended by your doctor; and lung cancer screening tests for men and women who are 55-80 years of age if they currently smoke or have quit smoking during the past 15 years; and smoke or smoked a pack a day for 30 or more years, or two packs a day for 15 or more years.

A person who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-disabled can call the DPH phone number above by using TTY services. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-232-5460 to type your conversation to a relay operator, who reads your conversation to a hearing person at DPH. The relay operator types the hearing person’s spoken words back to the TTY user. To learn more about TTY availability in Delaware, visit http://delawarerelay.com.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

DOVER – Cancer screening and early detection efforts continue to drive down Delaware’s cancer death rates, say state public health officials. In particular, officials are seeing dramatic improvements in the all-site mortality rate among non-Hispanic African-American men, which decreased by 30 percent between the five-year periods of 2001-2005 and 2011-2015, according to the latest cancer data. The Division of Public Health (DPH) presented its annual report to the Delaware Cancer Consortium (DCC) today, following its meeting in Dover.

Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Delaware, 2011-2015 provides data for all cancer sites combined (all-site cancer) as well as eight site-specific cancer types – breast, colorectal, liver, lung, pancreatic, prostate, stomach and urinary bladder – for the five-year period. In addition, the report includes information about risk factors, screening, state of diagnosis, and data trends. Today, DPH also issued a secondary analysis report of all-site cancer incidence rates by census tract.

Delaware ranks 18th among states for highest all-site cancer mortality in the 2011-2015 time period, which is two slots lower (an improvement) compared to last year’s report, in which the state ranked 16th-highest during the 2010-2014 time period.

According to the report, Delaware’s all-site cancer mortality rate decreased 14 percent from 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, which is the same percentage decline seen nationally. However, despite continuing decreases, the state’s mortality rate (175.1 deaths per 100,000 people) was still 7 percent higher than the U.S. rate of 163.5 for 2011-2015. The Delaware Cancer Consortium and the Division of Public Health remain committed to their efforts to further reduce cancer deaths in Delaware.

“We have made tremendous improvements over the years in helping Delawareans identify cancer earlier by encouraging cancer screenings, and accessing potentially life-saving treatment to improve opportunities for both short and long-term survival,” said Governor John Carney. “I am particularly grateful for the strong partnership between the Delaware Cancer Consortium, and Division of Public Health for coordinating our state’s cancer advocacy efforts, along with the support of many stakeholders, health care organizations and community champions.”

This year’s report also showed notable decreases in the all-site cancer mortality rates for specific populations. From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, in addition to the 30 percent decrease seen among African-American men, there was a 19 percent decrease among Caucasian men, and 7 percent decrease among Hispanic men. Among women, there was a 14 percent decrease for African Americans, 13 percent for Caucasian women, and 4 percent decrease for Hispanic women.

“Seeing a reduction in certain cancer disparities is both encouraging and rewarding, as it is a sign that we are making positive steps toward achieving health equity among all Delawareans regardless of race, ethnicity or gender,” said Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and a practicing family physician. “We can achieve even greater successes as we move from a system focused on the treatment of diseases to one increasingly focused on the prevention of diseases.”

Regarding incidence, or diagnosis of new cancer cases, Delaware’s all-site cancer incidence rate decreased 3 percent from 2001-2005 (504.2 per 100,000) to 2011-2015 (495.3 per 100,000). Still, the state’s all-site cancer incidence rate in 2011-2015 was 13 percent higher than the comparable U.S. rate (439.2 per 100,000).

While Delaware is ranked second among states for all-site cancer incidence, this may be due, in part, to the state’s continued increases in early detection and screening. All-site cancer incidence fell 9 percent among men, but increased by 3 percent in women. More specifically, it decreased by 15 percent among African-American men, 9 percent among Hispanic men, and 7 percent among Caucasian men.

Lung cancer, the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the nation and in Delaware, continues to be of concern, as it accounted for 19 percent of all newly diagnosed cancer cases and 29 percent of all cancer deaths in Delaware from 2011-2015. Most lung cancer cases are diagnosed in the distant stage, when the cancer has spread to distant tissues, organs or lymph nodes and is more difficult to successfully treat.

In April, the DCC launched an educational campaign to encourage current and former smokers in high-risk groups to have a low-dose computer tomography (CT) scan. High-risk individuals are those persons 55 to 80 years of age, who are a current smoker and who smoke a pack of cigarettes a day for the last 30 years or more, or two packs a day for the last 15 years or more; or quit smoking within the last 15 years and had smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 30 or more years, or two packs a day for 15 or more years. Smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer, and 85 to 90 percent of all lung cancers are caused by tobacco use, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Recent health policy in the form of Senate Bill 25 raises the legal age for sales of tobacco and vape products in Delaware from 18 to 21. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) estimates that increasing the age of sale to 21 could decrease tobacco-related deaths by 10 percent. The new law takes effect July 16, 2019.

Another area of concern for public health officials is the increase in liver cancer incidence and mortality. While liver cancer accounted for just 2 percent (506) of all newly diagnosed cancer cases from 2011-2015, those cases represented a 75 percent increase compared to the 2001-2005 time period. Additionally when comparing the two time periods, there was a 44 percent increase in deaths from liver cancer. Liver cancer incidence and mortality rates are significantly higher for African Americans than for Caucasians. Liver cancer incidence rates are 11.5 per 100,000 cases for African Americans compared to 7.6 per 100,000 cases for Caucasians, and mortality rates are 13.9 per 100,000 and 8.8 per 100,000 deaths respectively.

The increases are largely attributed to the hepatitis C virus, particularly in the baby boomer population, but are also highly attributable to three major lifestyle factors including alcohol use/abuse, smoking and obesity. While there is no vaccine for the hepatitis C virus, screening, early identification and treatment are effective.

“Liver cancer is one that can be prevented, and the power to do that is in everyone’s hands,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “If we want to begin to reduce the number of new cancer cases and cancer deaths in our state, we have to ensure that injection drug users are not sharing dirty needles, increase efforts to get people to reduce their obesity risk, lower their alcohol consumption and stop smoking tobacco. DPH is planning a more in-depth look at the geographic areas where these issues intersect in order to better direct prevention-focused resources to address this issue.”

To further assist Delaware residents in making informed decisions about their health, DPH launched the My Healthy Community data portal (myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov) earlier this year to share health data in the hopes of empowering communities to address their health issues. The site delivers neighborhood-focused population health, environmental and social determinant of health data at the smallest geographical area available.

To view the full Cancer Incidence and Mortality Report, 2011-2015, as well as the secondary analysis report of census tracts with higher incidence of cancer, visit https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/files/ct_analysis2011-2015_2019.pdf.

Breast Cancer
• Female breast cancer mortality in Delaware decreased 12 percent over the last decade (2001-2005 to 2011-2015), slightly lower than the 17 percent decline seen nationally.
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, the breast cancer incidence rate increased by 6 percent. Part of the increase in female cancer incidence may be due to increased screening efforts by DPH; Delaware is ranked third nationally in breast cancer screening (mammography). According to the Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFS), 78% of Delaware females 40 and older were screened for breast cancer in the previous 2 years.
• The proportion of breast cancer cases diagnosed in the earliest, most treatable stage has greatly improved in Delaware over the past three decades. The proportion of Delaware breast cancers diagnosed at the local stage increased from 42 percent in 1980-1984 to 67 percent in 2011-2015.

Colorectal Cancer
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, Delaware’s colorectal cancer incidence rate decreased 30 percent, a higher decrease than the comparable U.S. rate (22 percent).
• Ranked 38th nationally, Delaware’s colorectal cancer incidence rate of 37.3 diagnoses per 100,000 was lower than the U.S. rate of 39.4 per 100,000.
• From 1980-1984 through 2011-2015, the percentage of colorectal cancers diagnosed at the local (most treatable) stage increased from 32 percent to 40 percent.
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, Delaware’s colorectal cancer mortality rates declined 50 percent among non-Hispanic African-American males, compared to 30 percent among non-Hispanic Caucasian males. During the same time period, colorectal cancer mortality declined 32 percent among non-Hispanic African-American females, compared to 35 percent among non-Hispanic Caucasian females.
• Delaware ranks 12th nationally for meeting colorectal cancer screening recommendations. According to the BRFS, 77% of Delawareans met the US screening recommendations compared to 68% nationally

Lung Cancer
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, Delaware’s lung cancer incidence rate decreased 10 percent. The national incidence rate decreased 14 percent.
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, Delaware’s lung cancer mortality rate declined 19 percent. The national mortality rate declined 20 percent.
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, Delaware’s lung cancer mortality rates declined 36 percent among non-Hispanic African-American males and 25 percent among non-Hispanic African-American females.

Prostate Cancer
• From 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, prostate cancer mortality in Delaware declined 37 percent, which is higher than the decrease seen nationally (28 percent).
• Between 2001-2005 and 2011-2015, prostate cancer incidence rates in Delaware decreased by 22 percent.
• From 1980-1984 through 2011-2015, Delaware’s percentage of prostate cancer cases diagnosed in the local stage increased substantially, from 50 percent to 78 percent.
• Delaware ranks 6th for prostate cancer screening tests. According to the BRFS, 45% of Delaware males 40 and older had a PSA test in the past 2 years compared to 39% nationally.

For more information about DPH’s cancer prevention and treatment work, visit https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/cancer.html or call the Delaware Comprehensive Cancer Control Program at 302-744-1020. For more information about the Delaware Cancer Consortium, including its recommendations, visit https://www.healthydelaware.org/Consortium. To learn how to prevent, detect, and treat chronic diseases, visit the Healthy Delaware website: HealthyDelaware.org.

Those seeking lung cancer screening criteria and scheduling should visit HealthyDelaware.org/lung or call 302-401-4212 to speak with a screening nurse navigator. Providers in search of free lung cancer screening materials should visit
https://www.healthydelaware.org/Healthcare-Providers/Cancer/Lung.

Delaware tobacco users seeking help quitting can contact the Delaware Quitline, a free tobacco cessation counseling hotline for residents 18 and older, at 1-866-409-1858 or http://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/quitline.html.

A person who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-disabled can call the DPH phone number above by using TTY services. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-232-5460 to type your conversation to a relay operator, who reads your conversation to a hearing person at DPH. The relay operator types the hearing person’s spoken words back to the TTY user. To learn more about TTY availability in Delaware, visit http://delawarerelay.com.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.