Burden of cancer in Malawi; common types, incidence and trends: national population-based cancer registry.

Background: Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide with a majority of cases and deaths occurring in developing countries. While cancer of the lung, breast, colorectum, stomach and prostate are the most common types of cancer globally, in east and southern Africa these are less common and comprehensive data to inform policies are lacking.

Methods: Nationwide cancer registry was conducted between September and October 2010 in Malawi.