Mapping colorectal and gastric cancer vulnerability in Costa Rica: identifying high-risk populations and sociodemographic risk factors

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15517/8w7qj192

Keywords:

Costa Rican Cancer Incidence, LISA Analysis, Colorectal Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Spatial Epidemiology

Abstract

Identifying population groups and geographic regions at high risk for cancer is essential for screening programs. This study examines the incidence patterns of colorectal and gastric cancer in Costa Rica at the district level (n=490) during the 2017–2022 period. Utilizing Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA), we identified significant geographic hot spots. It was found that the most vulnerable population groups, which should be prioritized for screening programs, are those over 50 years of age. Regarding sex, men show greater vulnerability to both types of cancer. Concerning temporal trends, no significant differences were observed in the incidence rates of either type of cancer across most age groups when comparing the 2020–2022 period with 2017–2019. Spatial analysis identified critical hot spots requiring priority intervention, particularly in the Brunca region. These results provide a robust evidence-based framework for prioritizing future screening efforts, in the most vulnerable Costa Rican populations.

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Published

2026-10-13

Issue

Volume 24, Issue 1: july-december 2026 (in progress)

Section

Scientific articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Marcela Meneses, Martín Solís, Saúl Calderón-Ramírez, Balaam Sadoc Brenes-Navarro, Liss Salas-Cerdas, Paula Solano-Leandro, Karol Dayanna Castillo-Peña, Marvin Yglesias Rosales, Bruno Chiné Polito, Alexander Sánchez Cabo (Autor/a)

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