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World J Gastrointest Oncol. Oct 15, 2009; 1(1): 21-25
Published online Oct 15, 2009. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v1.i1.21
Published online Oct 15, 2009. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v1.i1.21
Concept of chemoprevention in colorectal cancer
Colm O’Morain, Dean of Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin 2, Ireland
Asghar Qasim, Gastroenterologist, Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Trinity College Dublin 2, Ireland
Author contributions: O’Morain C concepted and prepared the manuscript; Qasim A was involved in manuscript preparation and literature searches.
Correspondence to: Dr. Asghar Qasim, MRCPI, Gastroenterologist, Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Tallaght, Trinity College Dublin 2, Ireland. qasima@tcd.ie
Telephone: +353-14143851 Fax: +353-14143850
Received: February 21, 2009
Revised: July 17, 2009
Accepted: July 24, 2009
Published online: October 15, 2009
Revised: July 17, 2009
Accepted: July 24, 2009
Published online: October 15, 2009
Abstract
Colorectal cancer remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. The incidence of colorectal cancer is nearly four-fold higher in more-developed as compared with less-developed regions of the world. At present an early detection of colorectal cancer remains a crucial step in determining the therapeutic outcomes. Screening programmes have been introduced in an effort to detect colorectal cancer at an early stage or at a precancerous colonic polyp stage. These programmes should be used by the health professionals as an opportunity to educate the public regarding the use of chemoprevention in colorectal cancer, which is the main focus of this review and an attractive concept needing further evaluation.