ABSTRACT
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is primarily a disease of urban, industrialized societies. In the United States, the lifetime risk for development of CRC is approximately 6%. Recent data have suggested that the incidence rates for CRC may be gradually decreasing in some subgroups of the population. However, the mechanisms underlying these favorable trends are poorly understood. Several national organizations have adopted CRC screening and surveillance guidelines. Through widespread application of and appropriate compliance with these recommendations, CRC prevention may become increasingly achievable.
