Assessing Molecular Biomarkers and Subtypes of Colorectal Cancer in the Asir Region, Saudi Arabia: A Clinical Exploration

Background: CRC is recognized as one of the leading cancers worldwide., with its incidence influenced by genetic, molecular, and environmental factors. Understanding the distribution of molecular subtypes and biomarkers can aid in the development of targeted treatment and screening programs. This study focuses on the CRC landscape in the Asir region, a specific population in Saudi Arabia, where region-specific data on molecular subtypes remain limited. Aim & Objectives: The present study is conducted to analyze the prevalence of specific molecular subtypes and associated biomarkers in colorectal cancer patients from Asir region of Saudi Arabia. It also seeks to identify the most common molecular subtype and assess its association with demographic and clinical factors such as gender, age, tumor size, pathological diagnosis, and tumor grading. Methodology: A retrospective, observational, and analytical investigation was performed at Asir Central Hospital, Abha, Saudi Arabia, spanning from January 2021 to December 2024. The study involved 187 Saudi colorectal cancer patients who received treatment at the hospital during this period. Clinical and demographic data such as gender, age, tumor characteristics, and molecular subtype classification, were extracted and analyzed to identify potential associations. Results: The results displayed a statistically significant association between gender and incidence of malignant tumors (P=0.028), with a greater prevalence observed in males than in females. However, there was no significant link between gender and the occurrence of polyps (P = 0.276). The data also indicated that 44.92% of CRC cases occurred in patients aged over 50 years, highlighting an increased risk for this age group. Conclusion: This study concludes that CRC is more prevalent in men, particularly in those aged over 50 years. The insights into the relationship between molecular subtypes and demographic factors may inform screening programs and early detection strategies. These findings can improve patient care and public health initiatives in the Asir region.