Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Colorectal Cancer Patients in Bhutan: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
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By
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Prabhat Pradhan
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Ugyen Chophel
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Sangay Wangmo
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Thinley Dorji
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October 30, 2025
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Clinical Scorecard: Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Colorectal Cancer Patients in Bhutan: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Colorectal Cancer |
| Key Mechanisms | Increasing incidence linked to lifestyle changes and aging population. |
| Target Population | Patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer at JDW National Referral Hospital, Bhutan. |
| Care Setting | Managed primarily at JDW National Referral Hospital, Thimphu. |
Key Highlights
- Colorectal cancer accounts for 4.9% of incident cancer cases among males in Bhutan.
- Age-adjusted incidence rates: 101.7 for males and 126.4 for females (2019-2022).
- Mean age of diagnosis is 61.5 years, with a significant proportion (45.1%) aged ≥ 65.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Utilize serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels for diagnosis (> 5.2 ng/mL indicates elevation).
- Conduct thorough clinical evaluations and imaging as needed.
Management
- Surgical management at JDW National Referral Hospital.
- Chemotherapy administered under supervision of oncosurgeons.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regular follow-up reviews for confirmed malignancies.
Risks
- Increased cancer risk associated with aging and lifestyle factors.
Patient & Prescribing Data
182 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer from 2018 to 2024.
Majority managed through surgery and chemotherapy at JDW National Referral Hospital.
Clinical Best Practices
- Ensure referral to JDW National Referral Hospital for suspected malignancies.
- Implement a standardized protocol for patient management and follow-up.
References
