Distinct Molecular Profiles of Sporadic Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort and Systematic Review

Background and Aims: The observed increase in the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is being driven by sporadic cases, but the molecular characteristics of these tumors are not fully understood. Our objective was to investigate the prevalence of microsatellite instability (MSI) and selected mutations in sporadic EOCRC, and their association with survival. Methods: Firstly, we compared the prevalence of molecular characteristics and survival within a population-based cohort study of 652 stage II and III colon cancer patients in Northern Ireland, comparing sporadic early-onset (