Clinicopathological and Histopathological Patterns of Colorectal Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study at the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide, with early detection and prevention playing critical roles in improving prognosis and survival rates. This study aimed to evaluate the histopathological patterns and clinicopathological characteristics of CRC patients. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 12 months at the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH), Department of Medical Oncology, including 61 diagnosed CRC patients. Ethical considerations were ensured, and written informed consent was obtained. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. The mean age of patients was 52.18±14.33 years, with a majority over 60 years. A male predominance was observed (60.7% male vs. 39.3% female). The most common clinical features were changes in bowel habits (52.45%), per rectal bleeding (42.62%), and generalized weakness (40.98%). The rectum and anal canal were the most frequent tumor sites (39.3%), followed by the sigmoid colon (31.1%). Morphologically, 40.98% of lesions were ulcerative, 32.78% proliferative, 19.67% infiltrative, and 6.57% ulcero-infiltrative. Histologically, adenocarcinoma was the predominant type (85.2%), followed by mucinous carcinoma (9.8%) and undifferentiated carcinoma (4.9%). Significant differences were noted between asymptomatic and symptomatic patients and between tumor grading in younger versus older patients (p<0.05). Changes in bowel habits, per rectal bleeding, and generalized weakness were the most commonly reported symptoms, with the rectum and anal canal being the most common tumor sites. Adenocarcinoma was the most prevalent histological type, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and targeted interventions for better outcomes.