Cardiovascular Disease Burden in Colon Cancer Mortality and Population Disparities: A Nationwide U.S. Study (1999–2020)

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and colon cancer are the leading causes of death in the United States, with obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity serving as common risk factors. Death disparities persist across demographics, but the relationship between CVD burden and colon cancer mortality is poorly understood. AIMS: To quantify the burden of cardiovascular disease in colon cancer mortality compared with all-cause mortality and to assess disparities by age, sex, race, region and place of death. METHODS: A disproportionality analysis was conducted to calculate Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR) of CVD burden in colon cancer patients compared to all-cause deaths across age groups 15–85 years. ROR greater than 1 indicated a higher burden of CVD in cancer patients. Average Annual Percentage Changes (AAPCs) were calculated to evaluate trends, with p-values determining significance. RESULTS: The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on colon cancer mortality increased with age, while the ROR displayed a reverse J-pattern, being lowest in middle-aged individuals. A regional analysis indicated that the Northeast and West had the highest ROR, with a more pronounced increase in the West (AAPC 1.48%, p < 0.000001). Males consistently reported higher RORs, with the most significant increase observed in those aged 35–44 (AAPC 1.14%, p < 0.0012). Racial disparities revealed that younger Hispanics experienced the highest ROR (ages 15–24: 2.629, 95% CI: 1.813–3.812). Trends in ROR showed an upward trajectory among nursing home deaths. CONCLUSION: The impact of cardiovascular disease on colon cancer mortality differs by age, gender, ethnicity, and location. Specific interventions are necessary, especially for middle-aged individuals, those in rural areas, and racial minorities facing increasing rates. Tackling structural inequalities is crucial for diminishing these gaps.