The increase in breast cancer mortality in Russia and Ukraine can largely be explained by known changes in fertility, while recent changes may reflect changes in treatment. Observed trends suggest that death rates from female breast cancer in the two countries are likely to stabilize or even decline in the future.

Our analyses of the available mortality data show that not only are there differences in IHD mortality between and within the countries of this region, but that these are changing relatively rapidly. A combination of changes in lifestyle and in the delivery of health care could be responsible for this changing situation. Some countries have achieved less than might be expected based on common assumptions about healthy lifestyles and there is a danger of complacency. Other countries need to increase efforts to ensure that achievements in reducing IHD mortality are enjoyed by all.