Prevalence and clinical characteristics of colorectal adenocarcinoma in young adults in Mexico: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

Introduction and aims: The prevalence of colorectal cancer in young adults is increasing worldwide but there is limited data from Latin American countries. In Mexico, the burden and clinical profile of colorectal adenocarcinoma in young patients are not well characterized. Our study aimed to estimate the prevalence of colorectal adenocarcinoma and describe its clinical characteristics, in young adult patients in Mexico.

Materials and methods: The PubMed and Web of Science databases were systematically searched from database inception to September 2024. The prevalence of colorectal adenocarcinoma in young adults in Mexico was evaluated, comparing the clinical characteristics of early-onset and late-onset cases. A pooled meta-analysis was carried out, using random effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed through the I² statistic, meta-regression, and subgroup analyses. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data.

Results: The pooled prevalence of colorectal adenocarcinoma in young adults was 10% (95% CI 6-15 %) in patients ≤40 years of age and 19% (95% CI 18-21 %) in those under 50 years of age. Meta-regression indicated a growing trend in the under 40 age group over time and the predominating clinical factors were male sex (52%), rectal involvement (44%), stage IV disease at diagnosis (32%), and a greater number of poorly differentiated tumors.

Conclusion: Colorectal adenocarcinoma in young adults is an emerging public health concern in Mexico that requires specific strategies targeting prevention and early detection.