ABSTRACT
Colorectal cancer is primarily a disease of urban, industrialized societies. In the United States, the lifetime risk for the development of this cancer is approximately 6%. Recent data have suggested that the incidence rates for colorectal cancer may be decreasing gradually in some subgroups of the population. However, the mechanisms underlying these favorable trends have not been defined completely. Several national organizations have endorsed screening and surveillance guidelines, which undoubtedly have contributed to more effective prevention of colorectal cancer.
