Genetic epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Morocco: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

e15695 Background: Colorectal cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, ranking among the most common types of cancer. In North Africa, particularly in Morocco, the incidence of this disease has shown a notable increase over the past decades. This rise is attributable to various factors, including changes in dietary habits, lifestyle, and improved screening techniques. However, the genetic epidemiology of colorectal cancer in this country remains underexplored. Understanding the genetic predispositions and specific molecular variants in the Moroccan population is crucial for enhancing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. This systematic review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the genetic epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Morocco, highlighting common genetic mutations, hereditary risk factors, and clinical implications for more personalized care. Methods: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, SCIRP and J-STAGE databases, were searched for relevant studies published between 2000 and July 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select appropriate studies. The aim was to analyze the genetic profiles of colorectal cancer to establish an epidemiological profile specific to the Moroccan population. Results: We included 24 studies published between 2000 and 2024. Among these, 16 articles focused on the somatic genetics of CRC, while 8 explored the constitutional genetics of the disease. The mutation rates identified were: KRAS in 41%, NRAS in 4.15%, BRAF in 2.25%, PIK3CA in 19.3%, and MSI was present in 14.26% of cases. The constitutional studies investigated the association of specific SNPs with CRC risk, with three articles specifically examining the MUTYH, MLH1, and MSH2 genes. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of developing a robust "genetic management" strategy to enhance early detection and tailor therapeutic approaches to the genetic profiles of patients in Morocco.