Trends of chronic lymphocytic leukemia incidence and mortality in the United States: a population-based study over the last four decades

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia among adults, and its incidence is higher in elderly individuals. This study aims to examine the burden of CLL in the United States (US) by exploring the incidence-based rates (IBR) and incidence-based mortality (IBMR) across four decades. Research design and methods: CLL incidence data were obtained from the SEER-8 registry, covering 8.3% of the US population. Cases were identified using specific diagnostic codes and excluded if diagnosed on autopsy or death certificate. Age-standardized IBR and IBMR were calculated based on age, sex, and ethnicity/race. Joinpoint Regression Program was used to analyze changing trends in incidence and mortality. Results: Since 2011, males’ and females’ IBRs declined by −1.72%/year (p = 0.028) and −1.07%/year (p = 0.222), respectively. IBR of patients > 75 years increased by 4.01%/year (p < 0.001) form 1998–2010, then declined by 2.02%/year (p = 0.011). IBR of Blacks increased by 0.96%/year (p < 0.001) throughout the study period. CLL IBMR stabilized at −0.38%/year (p = 0.457) since 2012. Whites’ IBMR plateaued at a rate of −0.10%/year (p = 0.857) form 2012–2019, while blacks’ IBMR increased by 1.40%/year (p = 0.056) between 2000–2019. Conclusions: The analysis revealed a decline in CLL incidence since 2013, with stable mortality rates since 2012, indicating advancements in CLL management.