Profile of Patients Undergoing Colonoscopy at the San José del Carmen Regional Hospital in Copiapó, Chile, 2022–2024


Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22517/25395203.25860

Keywords:

Colonoscopy, Adenoma, Epidemiology, Chile, Colorectal Neoplasms

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the cohort of patients undergoing colonoscopies performed between 2022 and 2024 at the Regional Hospital of Copiapó, with an emphasis on colorectal cancer.

Materials and Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive study was conducted using data obtained from the databases of the Statistics Department and the Pathology Department of the Regional Hospital of Copiapó (HRC).

Results: Between 2022 and 2024, a total of 1,136 complete colonoscopies were scheduled; 1,114 were completed, 18 were canceled, and 4 were incomplete, with a steady annual increase in the total number of procedures performed. The main reason for cancellation was patient no-show. Women and beneficiaries of the National Health Fund (FONASA) predominated, and the most frequent age groups were 60–69 and 70–79 years. Most indications originated from the Diagnostic and Treatment Center (CDT) and the gastroenterology specialty. A total of 644 biopsies were obtained, a number that also showed a progressive increase. Histological findings were mainly distributed between adenomas and colitis, which together accounted for ≥60% of annual results, while cancer remained ≤10%, decreasing from 9.9% in 2022 to 5.4% in 2024.

Conclusions: The study showed a sustained increase in colonoscopies and biopsies performed at the Copiapó Hospital between 2022 and 2024. The most frequent diagnoses were adenomas and colitis, with a progressive increase in adenomas, suggesting improved early detection. These findings highlight the need to strengthen screening strategies and timely access to care, providing key inputs for regional healthcare planning.

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Published

2026-05-16

How to Cite

Alfaro Gallardo, F., Álvarez Ramírez, C., Bazignan Kimel, M. ., Leiva Araya, F. ., López Romo, C. ., Ramos Donoso, M., & Signore Ahumada, I. (2026). Profile of Patients Undergoing Colonoscopy at the San José del Carmen Regional Hospital in Copiapó, Chile, 2022–2024. Revista Médica De Risaralda, 32(1), 59–74. https://doi.org/10.22517/25395203.25860

Issue

Vol. 32 No. 1 (2026): January–June 2026.

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Original Article

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