Genomic Comparison of Early-Onset and Late-Onset Colorectal Cancer

​​Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals. Patients with this early-onset CRC (eoCRC) are more likely to have a hereditary predisposition to the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate potential genomic differences between eoCRC and late-onset CRC. We will use data from 128 patients diagnosed with CRC identified from the Alberta Cancer Research Biobank, with 64 patients aged less than 50 years and 64 patients aged greater than or equal to 50 years old. For analysis, we will conduct descriptive statistics to compare the genetic profile between groups under 50 years and older than or equal to 50 years. We will also assess the association between somatic and tumour genetic profiles to tumour characteristics, patient characteristics, treatment characteristics, and disease-free or overall survival between both groups. ​ 

Anticipated outcomes and impact​​

​​This proposed study will determine the mutational profiles of early-onset colorectal cancer and determine the differences between early-onset vs late-onset CRC. This knowledge will improve our understanding of eoCRC etiology and lead to better prevention and clinical management strategies. Ultimately, this study will contribute information learned in Alberta with other provinces as part of the Prairie Cancer Research Consortium and the Terry Fox Research Institute’s Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network, to further improve eoCRC prevention and outcomes in Canada and around the world. ​