EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF MALIGNANT NEOPLASM OF THE COLON IN GOIÁS OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS

Introduction Malignant neoplasm of the colon is the third most common type of tumor worldwide, accounting for approximately 10% of all cases. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, presenting symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, abdominal pain, and low iron levels. Given its high morbidity and mortality rates, determining the epidemiological profile of this disease is essential, particularly in the state of Goiás, where there is a lack of studies in this Brazilian region.

Objective To describe the epidemiological profile of malignant neoplasm of the colon in the state of Goiás between 2018 and 2023.

Methodology This is a descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study based on data from the Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) accessed through the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). The data pertain to malignant neoplasm of the colon over the last five years in patients from Goiás. Filters applied included: ICD-10 Morbidity List (malignant neoplasm of the colon), hospitalizations, race/ethnicity, gender, age group, available period (January 2018 to December 2023), and year of processing. Data were tabulated and analyzed using Excel. The study adheres to the ethical guidelines of Resolution 466/12 of the National Health Council.

Results Over the analyzed years, 5,350 hospitalizations due to malignant neoplasm of the colon were recorded in Goiás. The most affected ethnicity was mixed-race individuals, representing 58.2% of cases (n=3,116). The disease was more prevalent in men, accounting for 51.2% of hospitalizations (n=2,741), and among individuals aged 60-69 years, who represented 23.72% (n=1,269). Notably, 2023 had the highest number of hospitalizations, totaling 1,304 cases, with a progressive increase in cases over the years. From 2018 to 2023, there was an approximately 82.85% increase in hospitalizations, indicating a rising trend in the incidence of this type of cancer. Regarding mortality, a total of 558 deaths were recorded. The age group with the highest number of deaths was individuals aged 60-69 years (n=148).

Conclusion The analysis revealed that the most vulnerable profile for colon cancer includes men, mixed-race individuals, and those aged 60-69 years. Furthermore, there was a progressive increase in cases over the studied period, highlighting the urgent need for effective strategies for prevention, screening, and treatment to combat malignant neoplasm of the colon in Goiás.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025