Rising Incidence of Tongue Cancer Surgeries Among Middle-Aged and Older Women in Japan: A Nationwide Claims-Based Analysis From 2014 to 2022.

BACKGROUND

This study investigated recent trends and demographic patterns in tongue cancer surgeries in Japan using nationwide insurance claims data.

METHODS

Annual surgery counts and rates (per 100,000 person-years) were analyzed using medical (2014-2022) and dental (2016-2022) claims. Trends were evaluated using linear and Poisson regression to estimate annual risk ratios (RRs).

RESULTS

An average of 4470.7 surgeries per year was observed (rate: 3.4). The male-to-female ratio was 1.6:1 overall but nearly 1:1 under 40s and over 2.0:1 in the 60s-70s. Surgery rates peaked at ages 75-79 in males (12.0) and 75-84 in females (5.9). Age-adjusted surgery counts rose significantly from 2014 to 2022. Rates increased significantly among all females (RR = 1.020) and overall (RR = 1.010). Significant increases were seen in females aged 40-44 and 60-64 (RR = 1.083 and 1.055).

CONCLUSIONS

Distinct age- and sex-related trends were identified, particularly rising rates among middle-aged and older females.