Temporal Trends in Stomach and Colorectal Cancer Mortality by Racial Groups in Brazil (2000–2023): A Longitudinal Ecological Study

This longitudinal ecological study analyzed racial disparities in mortality trends for stomach cancer (SC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) in Brazil (2000 to 2023) stratified by sex. Data from the National Mortality Information System were analyzed for individuals aged 25 to 80. Self-reported race/skin color followed the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics classification: White (White group) and Black or Brown/multiracial (Black group). Age-standardized mortality rates used the world population as a reference, and Prais–Winsten autoregression calculated trends. SC mortality rates declined for both sexes and racial groups, with a greater reduction in the Annual Percent Change (APC) among Whiteindividuals. Conversely, CRC mortality rates increased, with the Black group showing a higher percentage increase in APC. Despite progress in reducing SC mortality, disparities persist, particularly for CRC, where Black populations experience worse outcomes. Higher SC and CRC mortality rates were observed among White individuals, but the trends highlight the growing burden of CRC in Black populations. These findings emphasize the urgent need to address racial disparities in cancer outcomes, as they remain a critical public health challenge despite advancements in healthcare access and disease control in Brazil.