Colorectal Cancer

Among all cancers, colorectal (bowel) cancer (CRC) ranks third (10%) in incidence and second in mortality (9.4%) [1]. In transitional countries, the incidence rate is roughly four times higher compared to that of transitioning countries [1]. Europe has the highest prevalence rates of colon cancer, followed by Australia/New Zealand and Northern America [1]. Hungary and Norway rank first among men and women, respectively [1]. Rectal cancer is more prevalent in East Asia. Colon and rectal cancers are uncommon in the majority of African and South-Central Asian nations [1]. Hungary (51.2 cases/100,000 persons) has the highest age-standardized annual incidence rates while Gambia has the lowest (1.1 cases/100,000 persons) [2]. In the UK, CRC is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in both males (9100 new cases) and females (7600 new cases). Survival rates are 78.3% for one or more years, 58.4% for 5 years or more, and 52.9% for 10 years or more. If diagnosed early, the survival rates are 98% for 1 year or more, 92% for 5 years or more, and 10% for the latest stage.