Rising Incidence of Tongue Cancer Surgeries Among Middle-Aged and Older Women in Japan: A Nationwide Claims-Based Analysis From 2014 to 2022.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated recent trends and demographic patterns in tongue cancer surgeries in Japan using nationwide insurance claims data. METHODS: Annual surgery counts and rates (per 100,000 person-years) were analyzed using medical (2014-2022) and dental (2016-2022) claims. Trends were evaluated using linear and Poisson regression to estimate annual risk ratios (RRs). RESULTS: An average of 4470.7 surgeries per year was observed (rate: 3.4). The male-to-female ratio was 1.6:1 overall but nearly 1:1 under 40s and over 2.0:1 in the 60s-70s. Surgery rates peaked at ages 75-79 in males (12.0) and 75-84 in females (5.9). Age-adjusted surgery counts rose significantly from 2014 to 2022. Rates increased significantly among all females (RR = 1.020) and overall (RR = 1.010). Significant increases were seen in females aged 40-44 and 60-64 (RR = 1.083 and 1.055). CONCLUSIONS: Distinct age- and sex-related trends were identified, particularly rising rates among middle-aged and older females.