Histopathological Features

Oct 13, 2025 by pynkocean.com 113 views

Background

Colorectal cancer is a significant health problem worldwide, including in Indonesia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 14 million new cases of cancer globally in 2012, resulting in 8.8 million deaths due to this disease. Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that frequently appears, ranking third as a cause of death from cancer. In Indonesia, data from the Ministry of Health in 2006 reported 1,736 cases of colorectal cancer incidence per 100,000 population. This highlights the importance of understanding the characteristics of colorectal cancer patients to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Research Purposes

This study aims to explore the characteristics of colorectal cancer patients treated at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan during the 2015 to 2017 period. The focus of the study includes factors such as age, sex, work, family history, main complaints, level of red meat consumption, histopathological features, grading, stage, and cancer locations. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Research Methods

This study employed a descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach. The data analyzed was secondary data collected from the medical records of colorectal cancer patients who were hospitalized at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan between January 2015 and December 2017. The research sample used the total sampling method, where all patients who met the research criteria were taken as samples. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of colorectal cancer patients during the specified period.

Research Results

Of the 81 samples of colorectal cancer patients analyzed, the results show that:

Gender: Male patients dominate more, covering 54.3% of the total sample.
Age: The majority of patients aged 50 years and over (64.2%).
Work: Working patients amounted to 54.3%.
Family History: Most patients (77.8%) do not have a history of cancer in the family.
Main Complaint: Hematochezia is the main complaint reported by 32.1% of patients.
Cancer Stage: Many patients were diagnosed at stage III (42%).
Histopathological Features: 91.4% of patients show adenocarcinoma, with 45.7% of which are classified as well differentiated.
Cancer Location: Rectum is the most common location, with a proportion of 35.8%.

Analysis and Discussion

The results of this study indicate that colorectal cancer is more common in men and patients aged over 50 years. This is in line with the general understanding that the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age and can be influenced by gender factors. The high percentage of patients who do not have a family history of cancer indicate that genetic factors are not the only trigger, but diet and lifestyle also play an important role.

The main complaints such as hematochezia often indicate an advanced stage of cancer, which shows that many new patients seek treatment after more serious symptoms appear. In this case, there needs to be a greater effort to increase public awareness about the importance of early detection, especially for those aged over 50 years, given that early detection can increase the chances of healing.

Conclusion

Colorectal carcinoma is more common in older patients and most are already at an advanced stage when looking for treatment. Therefore, early detection of colorectal cancer is highly recommended, starting from the age of 50 years and over. Awareness of the importance of routine examinations and healthy lifestyles needs to be improved so that the risk of colorectal cancer can be minimized.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Public Awareness: There needs to be a greater effort to increase public awareness about the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer, especially for those aged over 50 years.
Routine Examinations: Routine examinations should be encouraged for individuals aged over 50 years to detect colorectal cancer at an early stage.
Healthy Lifestyles: Awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, needs to be improved to minimize the risk of colorectal cancer.
Targeted Interventions: Targeted interventions should be developed to address the specific needs of colorectal cancer patients, including those with advanced stages of the disease.

By implementing these recommendations, it is hoped that the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer can be reduced, and the quality of life of patients can be improved.

Q: What is colorectal cancer?

A: Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. It is a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, and its incidence is increasing in many countries.

Q: What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?

A: The risk factors for colorectal cancer include:

Age: The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 50 years old.
Family History: A family history of colorectal cancer increases the risk of developing the disease.
Diet: A diet high in red meat, processed meat, and low in fiber may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

Q: What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

A: The symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:

Blood in the stool: Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools.
Changes in bowel movements: Diarrhea or constipation.
Abdominal pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdomen.
Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.

Q: How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?

A: Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through a combination of the following tests:

Colonoscopy: A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to visualize the inside of the colon.
Sigmoidoscopy: A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the sigmoid colon to visualize the inside of the sigmoid colon.
Computed Tomography (CT) scan: A test that uses X-rays and computer technology to produce images of the inside of the body.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan: A test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the inside of the body.
Biopsy: A procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the colon and examined under a microscope.

Q: What are the treatment options for colorectal cancer?

A: The treatment options for colorectal cancer depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. The treatment options may include:

Surgery: Removing the tumor and a portion of the colon or rectum.
Chemotherapy: Using medications to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Using medications that target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Using medications that stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

Q: What is the prognosis for colorectal cancer?

A: The prognosis for colorectal cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. In general, the prognosis is better for patients who are diagnosed at an early stage and receive treatment promptly.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?

A: You can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by:

Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet high in fiber and low in red meat and processed meat.
Exercising regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Being at a healthy weight.
Not smoking: Avoiding smoking.
Getting regular screenings: Getting regular colonoscopies or sigmoidoscopies.

By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer and improve your overall health.