Gender differences in cancer incidence rates among children and adolescents in Michigan

Michigan has experienced high poverty rates and has areas with factories that release pollutants. Such conditions may increase the risk of cancer. Limited epidemiological research on childhood and adolescent cancer is available in Michigan. This study investigated gender differences and yearly changes in the incidence of cancer among youth in Michigan. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention WONDER database was used to obtain data on cancer incidence rates among youth aged 0 to 19 years between 1999 and 2011 in Michigan. Michigan males had a higher cancer incidence rate (20.7 per 100,000) than U.S. males (18.4 per 100,000) in 2011. In the same year, Michigan females also had a higher rate (18.9 per 100,000) than U.S. females (17.3 per 100,000). The male cancer incidence rate increased from 16.7 per 100,000 in 1999 to 20.7 per 100,000 in 2011 in Michigan. The female cancer incidence rate increased from 15.0 per 100,000 in 1999 to 18.9 per 100,000 in 2011 in Michigan. In conclusion, gender differences exist in the incidence of childhood cancers in Michigan. Over the years, the rates of childhood and adolescent cancer increased for both males and females in Michigan. Differences in physiology, gender norms, and behaviors are potential contributors to gender inequalities. More awareness on childhood cancer is needed in Michigan. Additional research on the reasons for and the interventions to decrease gender differences in Michigan is proposed.