Positive Health Online

Abstract

GWYN and SINICROPE, Department of Gastrointestinal Medicine and Nutrition, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA, reviewed (91 references) literature on the effectiveness of chemoprevention (using natural or synthetic agents ) as a strategy for preventing the development and/or progression of colorectal cancer .

Background

In the USA, colorectal cancer is the third most frequent form of cancer and is the second most common (behind lung cancer) cause of deaths due to cancer . The development of colorectal cancer is characterized by progressive histopathological and molecular genetic changes, a process that offers a multitude of stages in tumourigenesis at which preventive strategies can be targeted.

Methodology

Results

Conclusion

Chemopreventive agents must be effective, safe, well tolerated and relatively cost effective . At present they cannot be recommended for average-risk individuals or those with sporadic colorectal neoplasia . Chemoprevention is still in its infancy, but developments are advancing rapidly. In the future, chemopreventive strategies may trigger important changes in our approach to colorectal cancer .

References

Gwyn K, Sinicrope FA. Chemoprevention of colorectal cancer. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 97 (1): 13-21. Jan 2002.