Epidemiology and patterns of GI tract cancers in Saudi Arabia: benefit of prompt lifestyle changes.

BACKGROUND

The economic prosperity experienced by Saudi Arabia in recent decades has had significant effects on the epidemiology and patterns of numerous non-communicable diseases, including cancer. The risk factors that often accompany financial prosperity include adopting a western diet, lack of physical activity, and a sedentary lifestyle. These factors contribute to an increased prevalence of chronic diseases andcan gradually increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancers. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to investigate the effect of embracing a western lifestyle on the epidemiology and patterns of gastrointestinal cancers in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

I gathered information from various sources in Saudi Arabia regarding the incidence, rate, contributing factors , and other epidemiologic measurements of gastrointestinal cancer. I utilized a range of electronic search platforms, encompassing PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and other electronic databases that met the specified criteria. I also made use of the Global Cancer Observatory and the Global Health Observatory databases.

RESULTS

The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers significantly rose during this period of prosperity. Colorectal cancer had the highest incidence, while liver cancer had the highest mortality rate. There has been a significant rise in various risk factors for gastrointestinal issues, especially physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes, and infections such as hepatitis and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

CONCLUSION

Although data on gastrointestinal cancers in Saudi Arabia are limited, there are notably high epidemiological rates, particularly for colorectal, liver, and stomach cancers. A range of risk factors have been linked to the emergence of gastrointestinal cancers, likely due to recent changes in lifestyle in Saudi Arabia, especially the embrace of western habits. The most common risk factors include dietary influences, obesity, and infections. Intervention at both the policymaker and community levels is critical.