Global patterns and trends in colon cancer incidence by anatomical subsite in 2022: a population-based study

Objective This study aimed to systematically estimate the global incidence levels and distribution characteristics of anatomical subsites of colon cancer across different ages, sexes and geographic regions in 2022. Methods Colon cancer cases in 2022 were obtained from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)’s GLOBOCAN database. Cases with anatomical subsites of colon cancer were obtained from Volume XII of Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5). Age-standardized incidence rates (ASRs) and the proportional distribution of anatomical subsites were calculated by age group, sex, world region and Human Development Index (HDI). Data from 2003 to 2017 were obtained from CI5 Volumes X, XI, and XII, and temporal trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression. Results Globally, the ASR for proximal colon cancer was higher than that for distal colon cancer (5.59 vs 5.11 per 100,000 person-years) in all populations. As HDI level increases, the ASRs for all anatomical subsites generally increased among people aged 50 years and above. Sigmoid colon cancer had the highest ASR globally. Appendiceal cancer accounted for over 65% of cases in the 0–14 age group, but declined sharply with age. More countries had an increasing trend for proximal colon cancer incidence than for distal colon cancer (19 countries vs 13 countries), and the upward trend was more pronounced among individuals aged 0–49 years. Conclusions The global distribution of colon cancer anatomical subsites exhibits age-specific and geographical disparities. The rising incidence of early-onset proximal and distal colon cancers indicates the need for tailored screening strategies and resource allocation.