Colorectal Cancer

Cancer of the colon and rectum (colorectal cancer [CRC]) is a major cause of cancer-associated morbidity and mortality in North America, Europe, and other regions with similar lifestyles and dietary habits. Rapid growth of knowledge about the molecular and biological characteristics of CRC has provided useful insights into the pathogenesis of these neoplasms and cancer in general. New insights also have been gained in regard to primary prevention. Because CRC arises over long periods as a result of interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental insults, it has become possible to identify preneoplastic and early neoplastic lesions better and to improve survival rates. Rapidly evolving knowledge of CRC pathogenesis, especially in high-risk groups, is allowing the development of new tools to identify those who will benefit most from cancer surveillance and from adjuvant therapy following potentially curative surgery. After decades with limited options for treating advanced disease, many new options for chemotherapy are now available. Individualized therapy based on molecular profiling has already become a reality.