A short impact of epidemiological features of colorectal cancer in Iran.

Aims and background. The incidence of colorectal cancer varies from one country to another although the variation is not much different In neighboring countries. Even In one country there Is no relevant variation In Incidence from one province to another. A study of different provinces In a vast developing country, Iran, was performed to determine the incidence of colorectal cancer. Methods. Information from cancer registries of four provinces in the north, north-west and centra -south of Iran regarding colorectal cancer was gathered for analysis. A total of 1628 cases with colorectal cancer In a total population of 6,435,549 was identified. Results and conclusions. In all provinces, there were more male than female patients with colorectal cancer. The study also showed that the incidence of the disease In young patients was higher than expected. Except for Israel because of genetlc factors, these provinces showed one of the highest ASR among Asian countries. This finding probably Indicates more westernization In the Iranian diet with a genetic Influence. Some social habits Including dietary and tobacco smoking may also Influence the Incidence of colorectal cancer In the Iranian population. Community-related risk factors need further Investigation, especially in the high-risk Northern part of the country.