Introduction/Background This study aims to illustrate the demographic (age) and geographic (rural/urban place of residence) differences in cervical cancer incidence rates in the Republic of North Macedonia. A cross-sectional analytical study of 1817 cervical cancer patients registered in the period from 2014 through 2021 was conducted.

Methodology Study was conducted as part of the National Cervical Cancer Survey in the Republic of North Macedonia, employing a cross-sectional analytical approach. Analysis took into consideration data collected during 2014–2021, or rather, it encapsulates the period from the implementation of the National eHealth System in Republic of North Macedonia - ‘My Appointment’ (‘Moj Termin’) electronic database of the Ministry of Health.

Population data, including gender, age and distribution across the eight statistical regions were obtained from the State Statistical Office of the Republic of North Macedonia annual official population records, which encompass the entire year up to December 31st.

Results Analysis of newly diagnosed cases of cervical cancer (2014–2021) indicated an upward trend by place of residence and age groups. The geographic (rural/urban) analysis indicated that 1309(72.7%) cases were from urban areas, and 492(27.3%) from rural areas. Majority or 1261(69.4%) were aged ≥50 years. Proportion of women aged under 50 was significantly lower - 556(30.6%), but liable to increase. In selected statistical regions, analysis of several years did not indicate a significant urban/rural difference in the percentage of newly diagnosed cases of cervical cancer.

Conclusion Although a significant part of the burden of cervical cancer can be alleviated through the HPV vaccination and timely screening, focused research on the geographic and socio-demographic specificities of the population must be conducted. Such research would provide a greater understanding of the nature of regional and sociodemographic disparities, which would in turn allow for the creation and improvement of programs for prevention, diagnosis and timely treatment of cervical cancer.

Disclosures Author and co-authors have nothing to disclose.