P4567 - Epidemiological Characteristics and Risk Factor Associations of Colorectal Cancer in a Community Health Setting in the Appalachian Region (2020-2024)

Jasneet Gill, MBBS, MD¹, Chimezie Mbachi, MD²
1North Knoxville Medical Center, Knoxville, TN; 2NORTH KNOXVILLE MEDICAL CENTER, Knoxville, TN

Introduction:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, particularly in underserved and high-risk populations such as those in the Appalachian region. This study evaluates the demographic and behavioral risk profiles of CRC patients in a community health setting, with a focus on lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and family history.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted using data from 429 patients diagnosed with CRC between January 2020 and December 2024 at a community health center in Appalachia. The variables analyzed included gender, race, smoking status, alcohol consumption, obesity, and family history of cancer. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, employing Chi-square tests for categorical variables and a significance threshold set at p < 0.05.

Results:

Of the 429 CRC patients, 84 (19.6%) were female and 345 (80.4%) were male (χ²(1) = 158.8, p < 0.001), indicating a significantly higher proportion of males. Racial distribution was predominantly White (n=405, 94.4%), with 20 Black (4.7%) and 4 Asian Indian (0.9%) patients. Regarding smoking status: 219 (51.0%) were current smokers, 39 (9.1%) were former smokers, and 171 (39.9%) never smoked. A significant association was found between current smoking and CRC diagnosis (χ² (2) = 11.24, p = 0.004). Alcohol use was reported by 203 (47.3%) patients; 226 (52.7%) reported no alcohol consumption. Alcohol use was significantly associated with CRC (χ² (1) = 6.38, p = 0.012). Obesity was noted in 78 (18.2%) patients, which was significantly associated with CRC diagnosis (χ²(1) = 4.76, p = 0.029). Family history of cancer was reported in 229 (53.4%) of patients and showed a strong association with CRC (χ² (1) = 35.69, p < 0.001).

Discussion:

This study highlights a significantly disproportionate burden of colorectal cancer among males in the Appalachian region, alongside a strong association with modifiable risk factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity. The prevalence of family history suggests a potential genetic predisposition in this population. These findings underscore the need for targeted screening, public health interventions, and lifestyle modification strategies tailored to high-risk Appalachian communities.

Disclosures:
Jasneet Gill indicated no relevant financial relationships.
Chimezie Mbachi indicated no relevant financial relationships.

Jasneet Gill, MBBS, MD¹, Chimezie Mbachi, MD². P4567 - Epidemiological Characteristics and Risk Factor Associations of Colorectal Cancer in a Community Health Setting in the Appalachian Region (2020-2024), ACG 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting Abstracts. Phoenix, AZ: American College of Gastroenterology.