Dados do Resumo

Título

CLINICAL AND ENDOSCOPIC EVALUATION OF PATIENTS WITH RECTAL TUMORS TREATED AT A CANCER REFERRAL CENTER IN THE AMAZON

Introdução

Colorectal cancer is a major cause of death, with increasing cases in developing regions. Risk factors include genetics, diet, and sedentary lifestyle. Colonoscopy is the diagnostic gold standard, but in Brazil, 80% of cases are detected late, reducing cure rates. This study evaluates the clinical and endoscopic characteristics of colorectal tumors in the Amazon, aiming to improve screening, treatment, and survival.

Objetivo

Clinical and endoscopic evaluation of colorectal tumors in patients treated at a reference oncology center in the Amazon region, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Métodos

This is a prospective study aimed at characterizing the clinical and endoscopic profiles of patients with colorectal cancer. A total of 31 patients were included in the study. The sample consisted of individuals of both sexes, over 18 years of age, residing in the Amazon Legal region, and treated at FCECON. Patients suspected of having colorectal adenocarcinoma were triaged and referred to the Oncology Surgery Service, regardless of clinical staging. Exclusion criteria included incompatible histopathological diagnosis, prior neoplastic treatment, dietary habits outside the standard Amazonian pattern, or incomplete clinical data. Clinical data collection was carried out at FCECON in a designated room through interviews and questionnaires about risk factors and health determinants related to colorectal cancer. This investigation was conducted at a public reference cancer center hospital in Manaus, Amazonas–Brazil The project was approved by the Ethics Committee–Approval Number: 5.702.723.

Resultados

During the study period, 31 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) were interviewed. The majority were women (n=23/74.2%), aged between 50 and 59 years, residing in Manaus. Most patients underwent colonoscopy (n=17/54.8%), with elevated and hardened lesions (n=11/35.5%), primarily located in the lower rectum. Almost all patients were symptomatic, with weight loss (n=24/37.4%) being the most common symptom. Lack of physical activity (n=22/71.0%) was the most frequent risk factor, while alcohol consumption was less significant than reported in the literature. Most patients consumed processed meat, which is associated with a higher risk of CRC. Constipation and abdominal pain were prevalent symptoms, indicating the need for medical consultation and screening.

Conclusões

The epidemiological evaluation revealed that, contrary to the global profile, women were more frequently affected than men. The predominant age group remains above 50, supporting the Ministry of Health's recommendation for colorectal cancer screening between ages 50 and 75. Endoscopic evaluation showed that lesions were often advanced, sometimes occupying nearly the entire intestinal lumen. Predominant signs and symptoms suggest advanced disease, underscoring the need for early screening. Simple tests, such as stool occult blood tests and digital rectal exams, are effective for early detection. The lack of local and regional studies complicates national analysis. This study aims to encourage further colorectal cancer research to enhance regional and national health services.

Financiador do resumo

FAPEAM – PAIC Program 23/24; EDITAL N. 002/2021 - AMAZÔNIDAS PROGRAM; RESOLUTION N. 002/2008, 007/2018, and 005/2019 - PRÓ-ESTADO GENOMIC HEALTH MONITORING NETWORK: OPTIMIZATION OF ASSISTANCE AND RESEARCH IN THE AMAZON STATE – REGESAM

Palavras Chave

Colorectal cancer; Endoscopic; Epidemiology