The aim of the study was to evaluate differences in breast cancer 5-year relative
survival rates between the urban and rural female population in Podlaskie Voivodship
in 2001–2002, before the introduction of the Population Screening Programme in
2006. The analysis was based on 659 breast cancer cases diagnosed in 2001–2002 and
registered in CR in Bia³ystok (Voivodship Cancer Registry). Relative survival and relative
excess of risk of death after 5 years of diagnosis as function of age and stage among
urban and rural women population were calculated. The results showed that survival
rates in Podlaskie Voivodship were low (69.4%) in comparison to the European average
(79.4%), and they differed between urban and rural areas. Patients living in rural areas
had a much lower survival rate than those living in urban areas at local and regional
stage of disease, whereas survivals were higher at the metastatic stage. In all age groups
considered in the study, the survivals in rural areas were lower than in urban areas. The
multivariate analysis confirmed that both the cancer stage and place of residence are
independent prognostic factors. Relationship with age was not confirmed. The research
results indicate low curability of breast cancer in Podlaskie Voivodship, and significant
differences between urban and rural areas. These results need to be considered in the
planning and monitoring of further intervention in order to increase the effectiveness of
prevention and treatment standards for more disadvantaged rural areas. It is particularly
significant when implementing the National Cancer Control Programme