Social inequalities on Cancer Incidence and Mortality in a Brazilian City

Cancer represents one of the leading global public health challenges, with its burden shaped not only by biological factors but also by social and economic inequalities. In Brazil, even municipalities with very high Human Development Index (HDI) show persistent disparities. This study assessed temporal changes in cancer incidence, mortality, and social inequalities in Campinas, São Paulo State, Brazil. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the Population-Based Cancer Registry and the Mortality Information System for 2010–2014 and 2015–2019. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were estimated for the most common cancers in men and women, stratified by levels of social vulnerability based on the São Paulo Social Vulnerability Index. Inequalities were analyzed using rate ratios and the Relative Index of Inequality (RII). Results: Among men, prostate and stomach cancer incidence declined, while mortality remained stable except for reductions in stomach cancer. Socially vulnerable men showed persistently higher mortality from prostate, stomach, and oral cavity cancers, with disparities widening over time. Among women, incidence increased for breast and lung cancers, and overall mortality rose, particularly from lung cancer. Vulnerable women exhibited consistently higher cervical cancer incidence and mortality, while breast cancer incidence remained higher in less vulnerable groups. Inequalities in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality narrowed over time for both sexes. Conclusion: Despite Campinas’ high HDI and urbanization, significant social inequalities in cancer incidence and mortality persist, with worsening disparities for some cancer types. These findings highlight the need for equity-focused health policies to ensure timely diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care for socially vulnerable populations.