Cancer Incidence Varies Substantially Across South Korea,Raising Regional Health concerns
Seoul,South Korea – New data reveals striking regional disparities in cancer incidence across South Korea,with certain provinces exhibiting significantly higher rates of specific cancers than others. Gyeongbuk province leads the nation in stomach cancer cases, while Jeonnam reports the highest incidence of liver cancer, and Seoul shows the most breast cancer diagnoses. These localized outbreaks are prompting investigations into potential environmental factors, lifestyle differences, and access too healthcare as contributing causes.
The nationwide statistics, released today, paint a concerning picture of uneven cancer burdens. Beyond the highlighted regional hotspots, the data underscores a broader trend of varying disease prevalence across the country. Understanding these localized patterns is crucial for tailoring public health initiatives, allocating resources effectively, and ultimately improving cancer survival rates for all South Koreans. Total medical expenses reached 128.751 trillion won last year,with an average monthly cost of 212,955 won per person,and Jeonnam experiencing the highest provincial costs at 267,235 won.
Nationally, periodontal disease remains the most prevalent condition, affecting 44,713 per 100,000 people. However, the cancer data reveals a more granular and troubling reality. Gyeongbuk’s elevated stomach cancer rates are prompting researchers to examine dietary habits and potential Helicobacter pylori infection rates within the province. Similarly, Jeonnam’s high incidence of liver cancer is being linked to potential hepatitis B and C prevalence, as well as alcohol consumption patterns. Seoul’s leading position in breast cancer diagnoses is fueling discussions about lifestyle factors, screening rates, and potential environmental exposures within the densely populated capital.
Other meaningful regional variations include hypertension being most prevalent in Gangwon, diabetes and arthritis in Jeonnam, mental illness in Jeonbuk, and liver disease in Busan. As of the end of last year, 53 million South Koreans where covered by medical insurance.
The total amount of insurance premiums collected last year was 83.9927 trillion won, with Seoul, Ulsan, and Sejong reporting the highest average premiums for office subscribers, and Seoul, Sejong, and Gyeonggi leading for regional subscribers. further analysis is underway to determine the correlation between premium costs and healthcare access in these regions.
Reporter Kim Ki-hwan of Segye Ilbo contributed to this report.
