Urban–Rural and Socioeconomic Disparities in Lymphoma Outcomes: Evidence from a Population-Based Study in Xiamen, China

Background Regional data on lymphoma in China remain limited. We analyzed incidence, mortality, and survival trends in Xiamen from 2011–2020 to identify demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with outcomes. Methods All newly diagnosed lymphoma cases (ICD-10 C81–C86, C96) were retrieved from the Xiamen Cancer Registry. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates (ASIR, ASMR) were calculated using Segi’s world standard population. Survival was assessed using observed survival, relative survival, and age-standardized relative survival. Cox regression identified independent prognostic factors. Results Between 2011 and 2020, 1,436 lymphoma cases were recorded. The ASIR was higher in males than females (6.44 vs. 4.34 per 100,000) and in urban versus rural residents (5.99 vs. 4.05 per 100,000). Mortality was also elevated in males (ASMR 3.57 vs. 2.10 per 100,000) and urban residents (3.14 vs. 2.10 per 100,000). Five-year age-standardized relative survival was 48.98% overall, higher in females than males (52.40% vs. 47.09%) and in urban than rural residents (50.64% vs. 41.44%). Multivariable Cox regression identified older age, rural residence, marital status, education, lymphoma subtype, and earlier diagnosis period (2011–2015) as independent predictors of poorer prognosis. Conclusion Lymphoma incidence and mortality in Xiamen reflect gender and regional disparities, while survival outcomes are strongly influenced by demographic and socioeconomic factors. These findings underscore the need for targeted cancer control strategies addressing urban–rural inequities and socioeconomic barriers.