DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2026.v12i01.007

Pages: 36-40

Introduction: Colorectal cancers (CRC) represent a major public health problem, particularly in developing countries, due to diagnostic delays and a steadily increasing incidence and mortality. Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the epidemiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of colorectal cancers managed in the surgery department of the Suru-Léré University Hospital Center in Cotonou, Benin. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive and analytical study covering a one-year period from November 18, 2024, to November 18, 2025, involving 51 patients treated for CRC at the Suru-Léré University Hospital Center. Results: We identified 51 cases of CRC among 616 patients admitted during the study period, representing a hospital incidence of 8.28%. The average age was 65.98 years, ranging from 15 to 95 years. The large majority of patients were over 50 years old (82.35%), while 17.65% were under 50. Females predominated (54.90%), with a sex ratio (F/M) of 1.2. In 35.29% of cases, the diagnosis was made in an emergency context due to an occlusive syndrome. Lesions were more frequently located in the right colon (54.90%) versus the left colon and rectum (45.10%). Lieberkühn adenocarcinoma was the most common histological type (96.08%), followed by neuroendocrine tumors (3.92%). In most cases, the cancer was locally advanced or even metastatic, often occurring in patients with unfavorable clinical conditions and requiring adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy after surgical treatment. Limited financial resources and the high cost of treatment negatively affected the continuation of care and follow up for many of our patients. Conclusion: Colorectal cancers represent a major public health problem in our setting, with a high incidence. Health insurance coverage, preventive measures, and early screening are essential to improve prognosis and reduce disease burden.