Investigation and Analysis of Schistosomiasis-Associated Gastroenteric Tumor in Jiujiang Section of the Yangtze River Basin (Jiangxi Province, China) from 2014 to 2024

Purpose This study retrospectively analyzes the prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infection in Jiujiang City from 2014 to 2024 and its relationship with colorectal cancer. Additionally, the infection rate of S. japonicum in Jiujiang City was investigated, aiming to provide new insights into the relationship between schistosome infection and host diseases. Methods Clinical and pathological data from 1,309 Schistosoma infection cases at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University were collected, including patient demographics, egg deposition sites, cancer status, and staging. Epidemiological survey data (2022–2023) from the Jiujiang CDC were analyzed, encompassing questionnaires, serological testing, and stool examinations. Results A pathological examination of 1,309 cases revealed that schistosome egg deposition was primarily located in the colorectal region (72.64%), with a higher prevalence in males and individuals aged 61–70 years. Among 200 tumor cases, 192 were found near egg deposition sites, with colorectal, gastric, and hepatobiliary cancers being the most common. The incidence of schistosomiasis-associated colorectal cancer (SACRC) peaked in the 71–80 age group, approximately a decade later than non-schistosomiasis-associated colorectal cancer (CRC). Tumor differentiation and staging showed no significant differences between SACRC and CRC. As of 2023, 13 out of 14 districts in Jiujiang City are affected by S. japonicum schistosomiasis, with 1.66 million people at risk. Pengze and Duchang have the largest at-risk populations. High seroprevalence rates were observed along the Yangtze River and Poyang Lake. Conclusion The study highlights the high prevalence of colorectal cancer among individuals infected with S. japonicum and underscores the ongoing public health challenges of schistosomiasis in the Yangtze River Basin, despite low overall prevalence.