Trends in primary brain tumour incidence and mortality in Ireland 1995–2019

Primary brain tumours are a source of mortality and morbidity which require extensive resources, diagnostic and therapeutic technology. There is evidence that people with brain tumours can benefit from rehabilitation, but frequently experience difficulty accessing such service. The aim of this study is to examine incidence, patient and tumour characteristics and survival in adult primary brain tumours by major subtypes in Ireland. Data on all adult Irish patients diagnosed with primary brain tumours between 1995 and 2019 were extracted from the National Cancer Registry Ireland (NCRI). Descriptive statistics are presented by sub-type of brain tumour. Incidence rates were calculated by year period of diagnosis. Survival analysis was conducted using Cox proportional hazards regression. Between 1995 and 2019, a total of 13,122 primary brain tumour cases in those aged 15+ years, were registered in Ireland. There were increases in diagnosed brain tumours over the 25-year period; 1,799 cases in 1995–1999 increasing to 3,590 in 2015–2019. Glioblastoma (WHO grade IV) was the most frequent tumour subtype (n = 3,671, 28%), followed by meningiomas (3,281, 25%), and other astrocytic tumours (1391, 10.6%). Overall survival rates increased over time, however, increasing age was associated with decreased survival. Survival was improved in females and those receiving surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The increased incidence and improved survival in major subtypes of brain tumours in Ireland over time is likely due to a variety of factors such as improvements in diagnostics, treatment advances and cancer registrations. Age-standardised rate (ASR) of incidence of brain tumours increased from 1995 to 2019. Improved survival over time and in females compared to males. Decreased survival with increasing age at diagnosis.