Delaware Cancer Mortality Rate Continues Decline in Latest Report

The Delaware Division of Public Health has presented it’s annual report, finding a decrease in the rate of cancer deaths.

The report found that Delaware’s all-site cancer mortality rate decreased 14 percent from 2001-2005 to 2011-2015, which is the same decline seen nationally. Despite continuing declines, the report found the state’s mortality rate (175.1 deaths per 100,000 people) was still 7 percent higher than the U.S. rate of 163.5 in 100,000 deaths.

Governor John Carney said of the report” We have made tremendous improvements over the years in helping Delawareans identify cancer earlier by encouraging cancer screenings, and accessing potentially life-saving treatment to improve opportunities for both short and long-term survival.” He continued “I’m particularly grateful for the strong partnership between the Delaware Cancer Consortium, and Division of Public Health for coordinating our state’s cancer advocacy efforts, along with the support of many stakeholders, health care organizations and community champions.”

Among the notable decreases in the all-site cancer mortality rates for specific populations in the state was a 30 percent decrease amongst African-American men, 19 percent decrease among Caucasian men, 7 percent decrease among Hispanic men, a 14 percent decrease for African-American women, 13 percent decrease for Caucasian women and 4 percent decrease for Hispanic women.