Differences Between Right and Left Colon Cancer in Beira Interior

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally and in Portugal.
• Distinguishing between right colorectal carcinoma (RCC) and left colorectal carcinoma (LCC) is crucial due to differing clinical presentations, treatments, and prognoses.
• Emerging evidence suggests RCC and LCC are distinct entities with unique biological and clinical characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of right colorectal carcinoma (RCC) and left colorectal carcinoma (LCC) in the Beira Interior region of Portugal.
• To identify differences in patient demographics, presenting symptoms, and surgical management between RCC and LCC.
• To contribute to a better understanding of CRC subtypes for improved screening and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive, and comparative study was conducted.
• Data were collected from three hospitals in Beira Interior over a 6-year period.
• Analysis focused on comparing demographic, clinical, and surgical data between RCC and LCC patient groups.

Main Results:

• Right colorectal carcinoma (RCC) cases were more prevalent than left colorectal carcinoma (LCC).
• Anemia was significantly more common in the RCC group (p <0.01), while intestinal occlusion was more frequent in the LCC group (p <0.001).
• Emergency surgery rates were higher for LCC (27.2%) compared to RCC (18.3%; p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

• The study highlights distinct clinical profiles for RCC and LCC in the Beira Interior region, aligning with existing literature regarding anemia and intestinal obstruction prevalence.
• While males predominated in both groups in this Portuguese cohort, contrasting with global trends for RCC, further targeted research and optimized screening are essential for reducing CRC mortality.