Publication:

Clinicopathological profile and survival outcome of colorectal cancer: a retrospective study from a tertiary care centre in North-East India

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an emerging major health issue. The incidence in North-Eastern part of the country is higher compared to rest of the country. However, there is no formal screening program inspite of the alarming increased incidence. This study aims to analyze the clinicopathological characteristics, treatment pattern and outcome of CRC patients in a tertiary care hospital in North-East India.

Methods A retrospective review was conducted for all patients with histopathologically confirmed CRC reported to Radiation Oncology Department, RIMS Imphal between January 2019 and December 2023. Data regarding demographic parameters, clinical presentations, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities and survival were collected and analyzed.

Results A total of 212 cases with M:F ratio of 1.32:1 were studied. The mean age was 56.9 years with most commonly affected age group being 51-60 years. The most frequent symptoms were pain abdomen (37.01%), bleeding per rectum (34.41%), altered bowel habits (22.07%) and loss of appetite (6.49%). Rectum was most commonly affected (52.04%) followed by colon (33.67%) and rectosigmoid (14.28%). Adenocarcinoma was predominant (84.90%) followed by signet ring cell (7.07%), mucinous (7.07%) and squamous cell carcinoma (0.94%) with majority showing moderate differentiation (74.49%). Most patients were diagnosed at stage III (37.75%) followed by stage IV (27.55%). 2 years overall survival was 25.75%.

Conclusion Colorectal cancer has male dominance and predominantly presents in advanced stages. The survival outcome is poor with limited curative option. These findings highlight the need for screening and public awareness.