Colorectal cancer screening and surveillance: current standards and future trends

Abstract

Its prevalence, long premalignant course, and favorable response to early intervention make colorectal cancer an ideal target for screening regimens. The success of these regimens depends on accurate assessment of risk factors, patient compliance with scheduled visits and tests, and physician knowledge of screening strategies. We review the current recommendations for colorectal cancer screening in general and at-risk populations, comment on surveillance methods in high-risk patients, and examine current trends that will likely influence screening regimens in the future.