Regional differences in cancer incidence structure as a basis for mortality reduction strategies: assessment and mapping

DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-1-31-216-232

View or download the article (Rus)

About the Authors

Victoriya R. Bityukova

Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography,
1, Leninskie gory, Moscow, 119991, Russia,
E-mail: v.r.bityukova@geogr.msu.ru

Nikita A. Mozgunov

University of Cambridge,
CB2 0SR, Cambridge, United Kingdom,
E-mail: mozgunov.n@gmail.com

Katerina K. Yarova

Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography,
1, Leninskie gory, Moscow, 119991, Russia,
E-mail: kk.yarova@yandex.ru

Abstract

Cancer ranks second among the causes of mortality in Russia, surpassed only by cardio-vascular diseases. However, cancer incidence rates vary significantly across the country, reflecting differences in natural conditions, environmental factors, socio-economic characteristics, and population lifestyles. The aim of this study is to identify regional differences in the structure of cancer incidence in Russia using a territorial-structural approach and cartographic methods, as well as to define priority areas for the development of targeted prevention programs. The analysis covers statistical data for the period 2014–2023, including standardized incidence rates and the dynamics of various types of malignant neoplasms. Cartographic models developed in the study revealed the spatial distribution of major cancer types and identified regions with a high concentration of specific malignancies. The internal structure of cancer incidence within regions and its temporal dynamics proved to be more informative indicators than absolute incidence levels. The study made it possible to distinguish territorial types of cancer incidence structures and to assess the influence of environmental and socio-demographic factors on the spatial distribution of cancer cases across the country. The findings provide a basis for optimizing regional prevention and healthcare strategies aimed at reducing cancer mortality and improving population health under conditions of pronounced spatial heterogeneity in risk factors and disease patterns. The proposed approach allows for more efficient resource allocation, the development of targeted primary and secondary prevention strategies, and timely responses to changes in environmental and socio-economic conditions.

Keywords

cancer morbidity, regional differences, risk factors, territorial structure of the disease

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For citation: Bityukova V.R., Mozgunov N.A., Yarova K.K. Regional differences in cancer incidence structure as a basis for mortality reduction strategies: assessment and mapping. InterCarto. InterGIS. Moscow: MSU, Faculty of Geography, 2025. V. 31. Part 1. P. 216–232. DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-1-31-216-232 (in Russian)