Decline in Cancer Mortality Rates in Germany

In Germany, a notable decrease in mortality rates from colorectal cancer has been observed over the past two decades. According to data from the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden, deaths from this cancer type have dropped by 17%. Specifically, the number of fatalities related to colorectal cancer fell from 28,900 in 2003 to approximately 24,100 in 2023.

This decline is attributed to factors such as advancements in treatment options and the gradual implementation of screening programs across the country. Correspondingly, the total number of hospitalizations due to colorectal cancer has also diminished, with around 139,200 patients requiring inpatient care in 2023--representing a 30% reduction compared to 2003.

While colorectal cancer showed the most significant percentage drop in mortality among common cancers, it was followed by stomach cancer and cervical cancer, which experienced declines of 34% and 20%, respectively. The data further indicates that the decrease in colorectal cancer deaths was more pronounced among women, with 11,100 female fatalities in 2023 marking a 25% reduction over 20 years. In contrast, male deaths from this disease totaled 13,000, reflecting an 8% decrease.

Notably, men accounted for 54% of colorectal cancer deaths in 2023, indicating a trend where since 2006, a higher proportion of men than women have succumbed to this illness. The statistical data reveals that older individuals are predominantly affected by colorectal cancer, with 71% of fatalities occurring in those aged 70 and older. Additionally, 18% of deaths were in the 60-69 age group, 8% in those aged 50-59, and 3% involved individuals under 50 years old.

Overall, the total number of cancer-related deaths in Germany rose by 10% from 2003 to 2023, reaching approximately 230,300. This increase parallels a population growth of 2%, bringing the total to 83.5 million by the end of 2023. Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality, following lung and bronchial cancers. In contrast, there has been a notable rise in fatalities from skin cancer (61% increase), pancreatic cancer (53% increase), and prostate cancer (32% increase).