Objective: To identify and describe the profile of colostomized patients domiciled in the State of Rio Grande do Norte. Method: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative study realized in the Ostomized Association of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal/RN, Brazil, between December 2013 and March 2014, through the registry of 549 colostomized patients. Results: The distribution between the genders occurred in a similar way, with a rate age of 58.21 years (± 21.59 years). They were predominantly married (47.7%), brownish colour (47.3%), with elementary school (53.4%), income of up to one minimum wage (64.3%), retirees, pensioners or beneficiaries (25.9%) and coming from the Eastern Coastal Zone (61.4%). Temporary colostomies prevailed (54.3%), with an average surgical time of 4.75 years (± 5.9 years), the main cause of which was rectum neoplasia (44.8%). Conclusion: When this population is characterized, it is possible to establish priorities regarding the assistance provided, the planning and implementation of actions aimed at health promotion and the prevention of complications.

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