EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS HOSPITALIZED FOR MALIGNANT NEOPLASM OF THE COLON IN A PUBLIC HOSPITAL IN THE LOWER AMAZON REGION BETWEEN 2020 AND 2022

Introduction Colon cancer is one of the leading malignant neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract and poses a significant public health challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality rates. The increasing number of cases in Brazil is linked to inadequate lifestyle and dietary habits, such as obesity and sedentary behavior. In the northern region, particularly in the Lower Amazon, factors such as the geographic distance from urban centers and limited access to early detection exams influence clinical outcomes of cancer patients. Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated these challenges. This study aims to improve public health strategies and enhance the quality of life for patients in Santarém.

Objective To analyze the epidemiological profile of patients hospitalized for colon cancer who progressed to death in a public hospital in Santarém between 2020 and 2022.

Methodology This is an epidemiological study based on an observational, descriptive design with a quantitative approach. The data were extracted from the Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) database concerning the mortality of patients hospitalized with colon cancer in a public hospital in the Lower Amazon region, Santarém, Pará, from 2020 to 2022. Sociodemographic variables such as sex, age group, and ethnicity were analyzed alongside clinical variables, including the number of hospitalizations per year. The data were organized and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2021.

Results Based on information from SIH/SUS, 114 patients were hospitalized for malignant colon neoplasm during the study period: 46 in 2020, 30 in 2021, and 38 in 2022. Of these, 12% progressed to death. Women of mixed ethnicity (parda) accounted for the highest number of cases, totaling 54. The mortality rate relative to hospitalizations was 10% in 2020, peaked at 23% in 2021, and significantly decreased to 5.2% in 2022. Regarding hospitalizations by age group, individuals aged 50–59 years were the most affected (33 cases). However, in terms of mortality, the 60–69 age group had the highest rate.

Conclusion The epidemiological profile of colon cancer mortality in the Lower Amazon region from 2020 to 2022 is characterized by elderly women aged 60–69 years of pardo Brazilians.

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

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025