Development of a risk prediction model for personalized assessment of postoperative recurrence risk in colon cancer patients.

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer, a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide, exhibits a high recurrence rate in patients following surgical intervention, particularly when the disease has progressed to intermediate or advanced stages. This study undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the risk factors influencing postoperative recurrence in patients with middle- to late-stage colon cancer and subsequently develops a columnar graphical prediction model based on these findings. This model seeks to enhance the capability of identifying the risk of postoperative recurrence in patients with intermediate and advanced colon cancer, thereby providing a scientific foundation for the development of more personalized and effective prevention and management strategies.

METHODS

An analysis was conducted on a cohort of 209 patients diagnosed with colon cancer and treated at our hospital between 2020 and 2021. Clinical data were gathered to compare recurrence rates of postoperative colon cancer among patients with different influencing factors. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine independent factors affecting the recurrence rate of postoperative colon cancer. A nomogram risk prediction model was developed and assessed for its effectiveness.

RESULTS

The results of the regression analysis indicated that "Tumor stage" (stage IV), "Lymph node metastasis" (presence), "the level of C-reactive protein", and "the level of carcinoembryonic antigen" were identified as independent risk factors for postoperative colon cancer recurrence in patients. Additionally, "Differentiation degree" (medium/high), "Chemotherapy (have)", and "the level of serum albumin" were found to be associated with a decreased risk of recurrence. A nomogram prediction model was created using the mentioned risk factors, showing a link between higher scores and higher postoperative colon cancer recurrence rates. The model had a C-index of 0.834 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.776-0.892] and was internally validated for strong and consistent performance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed a nomogram prediction model to forecast the recurrence rate of postoperative colon cancer by identifying independent influencing factors. The model demonstrates strong discrimination and consistency, offering valuable guidance in promptly assessing the likelihood of postoperative colon cancer recurrence in patients and implementing timely and effective preventive measures.