Exploring Vulvar Cancer Mortality Rates

Vulvar cancer is a rare condition, yet advancements in treatment have significantly enhanced survival rates over the years. Compared to many other cancer types, the prognosis for vulvar cancer patients remains relatively optimistic.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), it's estimated that 1,670 individuals will succumb to vulvar cancer in 2023, resulting in a current mortality rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people.

Data from previous years indicate that approximately 70% of individuals diagnosed with vulvar cancer from 2013 to 2019 were alive five years later. It is important to note that some of those who passed away during this timeframe may have died due to unrelated health issues. Various factors, including age and treatment type, can influence survival outcomes, with older individuals and those who did not undergo surgical intervention facing greater risks.

Deciphering the Statistics

When discussing cancer, two key terms often arise: mortality rates and survival rates. The mortality rate represents the number of deaths from vulvar cancer within a specified period, usually expressed per 100,000 people. In contrast, the survival rate typically indicates the percentage of individuals alive five years after a vulvar cancer diagnosis. It's essential to understand that these rates do not account for personal variables, such as age and coexisting health conditions, making them rough estimates rather than definitive assessments. Furthermore, as cancer treatment continues to evolve, these statistics are subject to change.

Vulvar Cancer Staging Explained

Vulvar cancer is classified into different stages, with several categorizations used in the United States. The SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database outlines the following:

• Localized: Cancer confined exclusively to the vulva.
• Regional: Cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues.
• Distant: Cancer that has metastasized to more distant organs, such as the lungs.

You might also come across numbered stages:

• Stage 1: Cancer remains in the vulva.
• Stage 2: Cancer spreads to adjacent tissues.
• Stage 3: Cancer has expanded to nearby tissues and lymph nodes.
• Stage 4: Cancer is advanced, spreading to distant body parts.

Age-Related Prognosis

Vulvar cancer is more frequently diagnosed in older adults. As age increases, so does the mortality rate. The NCI SEER database reports that the average age at death from vulvar cancer is 77 years. Notably, individuals aged 84 and older account for 28.5% of vulvar cancer-related deaths, whereas those aged 20 to 34 represent only 0.3% of such fatalities.

Survival Rates by Stage

The stage of vulvar cancer plays a critical role in determining survival outcomes. The five-year relative survival rate for localized vulvar cancer is approximately 86%, indicating that most patients continue to live five years after diagnosis. This percentage, however, decreases to about 48% for regional cancer, and further declines to 23% when the cancer has metastasized to distant locations.

Factors Influencing Prognosis

While vulvar cancer statistics reflect trends, it's crucial to acknowledge that they are based on smaller sample sizes given the rarity of the condition. Consequently, they may not be entirely reliable. A healthcare provider will consider additional elements when assessing an individual’s prognosis, including age, overall health status, the cancer stage at the time of diagnosis, and the cancer grade. Additionally, disparities based on race may exist; for instance, non-Hispanic white individuals are statistically more prone to die from vulvar cancer.

Resources for Information and Support

If you're seeking additional information or support regarding vulvar cancer, consider reaching out to the following organizations:

• Smart Patients: Offers online peer support for individuals affected by vulvar cancer.
• The Foundation for Women’s Cancer: Provides a wealth of resources and information.
• The National Cancer Institute: Supplies details on vulvar cancer, coping mechanisms, and adjustments for those living with the disease.

Lauren Sharkey is a journalist and author based in the UK, specializing in women's health issues. When not focused on health topics, she enjoys uncovering compelling stories about young female activists and building supportive communities for them.