Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women worldwide. Each year, it accounts for nearly two million cases and one million deaths worldwide. The increasing incidences of morbidity and mortality present a significant global health and economic burden, particularly in low- and middle- income countries. Over the past three decades, substantial advances have been made in screening, our understanding of colorectal carcinogenesis and the genetic basis of the disease, and refinement of surgical and oncological treatments. Advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and the evolution of adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment, biological therapies, and immunotherapy have significantly improved patient outcomes. Multidisciplinary approaches to managing metastases in the liver, lungs and peritoneum are also contributing to improved survival, even in the advanced stages of the disease. Part of the Oxford Textbooks in Oncology series, the Oxford Textbook of Colorectal Cancer discusses these developments, including exploring emerging advances in research and clinical practice. It examines the role of artificial intelligence in diagnostics and prognosis prediction, and considers the patient as a whole, highlighting the 'third healthcare revolution' and the central contributor of all healthcare professionals involved in the patient pathway, including colorectal nurse specialists. With contributions from internationally renowned experts, this comprehensive, multidisciplinary textbook provides an accessible, evidence-based resource for trainees and established oncologists, surgeons, specialist nurses and pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals involved in colorectal cancer care.
