ANALYSIS OF REPORTED CASES OF COLORECTAL CANCER IN THE STATE OF GOIÁS, BRAZIL (2013-2024)

Introduction Colorectal cancer is one of the main malignant neoplasms in the state of Goiás, representing a significant challenge for local public health. In Goiás, it is the third most prevalent type of cancer, surpassed only by breast and prostate cancer. The high incidence and severity of the disease demand a detailed analysis to better understand its distribution.

Objective To analyze the distribution and profiles of colorectal cancer cases diagnosed in the state of Goiás.

Method This is an analytical observational ecological study using data from the Oncology Panel available on the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS) website. The sample included all cases of colorectal cancer (ICD codes C18, C19, C20, and C21) diagnosed in the state of Goiás between 2013 and 2024.

Results During the period, 8,405 new cases of the disease were reported in Goiás, representing 2.6% of all colorectal cancer cases in Brazil (314,635). The gender distribution was 50.5% in women and 49.5% in men, reflecting the national distribution with similar numbers between genders. There was a reduction in new diagnoses in 2020 and 2021, possibly due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to a decline in seeking medical care. The age distribution shows the highest incidence in the 50 to 69 age group (51.4%) and the lowest incidence in individuals under 29 years of age (0.5%). The most common treatment types were chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiotherapy. This distribution is inconsistent with the recommended guidelines for colorectal cancer treatment, which prioritize surgical resection of the tumor. However, when compared to other studies, a similarity in therapeutic strategies adopted is observed. The majority of diagnoses were made at stages 3 and 4, which is concerning as advanced-stage diagnoses are associated with worse prognoses and lower survival rates.

Conclusion This study revealed a high prevalence of colorectal cancer in the state of Goiás, particularly in the 50 to 69 age group and in both sexes. Chemotherapy and surgery were the most commonly used treatments, and most diagnoses were made in advanced stages. The epidemiological information provided is essential for the promotion of public health measures and underscores the need for future and more detailed studies on the subject.

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

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025