Colorectal Cancer Trends of 2018 in Romania—an Important Geographical Variation Between Northern and Southern Lands and High Mortality Versus European Averages

Purpose In Romania, one of the highest rates for colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality in Europe was estimated based on data available in 2008. Ever since, consistent data are missing. In this article, we tried to estimate the general burden of CRC in our country. Methods We collected data from all hospitalized recorded cases according to the ICD-10 revision (codes C18–C20), as both primary and secondary diagnoses, as reported by all the hospitals to the DRG National System, between 2016 and 2018. Results There were 50,890 persons hospitalized with CRC. The prevalence of hospitalized colorectal cancer was 108.24/100,000 inhabitants in 2016, 113.09/100,000 inhabitants in 2017, and 116.83/100,000 inhabitants in 2018. Distal localization prevailed. We registered 34.13/100,000 deaths by CRC within the mentioned period of time, almost twofold higher than average European range. There are significant geographical differences regarding CRC prevalence and mortality, with higher rates in the Northern and Central Regions, and a very low prevalence and mortality in Bucharest and Southern provinces. Conclusion We note a high colorectal mortality rate in Romania, especially in the Northern and Central Regions, nearly double versus European ranges.