Colorectal Cancer: A Review of Carcinogenesis, Global Epidemiology, Current Challenges, Risk Factors, Preventive and Treatment Strategies

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The high lethality of colorectal cancer (CRC) is anticipated to continue in the following decades. Early-stage CRC is entirely treatable with surgery and adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy/radiotherapy). However, recurrence is common, and cancer drug resistance increases the chances of treatment failure. At the same time, there are many risk factors leading to high prevalence among both genders. Despite significant improvements in treating other cancers, CRC management is not yet at a satisfactory level. In this comprehensive review, we discussed the development of CRC and its associated risk factors, preventive and treatment strategies and proposed some recommendations. Furthermore, besides chemotherapy and targeted therapy, we discussed natural products as therapeutics for CRC. ABSTRACT: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most deadly cancer. Global incidence and mortality are likely to be increased in the coming decades. Although the deaths associated with CRC are very high in high-income countries, the incidence and fatalities related to CRC are growing in developing countries too. CRC detected early is entirely curable by surgery and subsequent medications. However, the recurrence rate is high, and cancer drug resistance increases the treatment failure rate. Access to early diagnosis and treatment of CRC for survival is somewhat possible in developed countries. However, these facilities are rarely available in developing countries. Highlighting the current status of CRC, its development, risk factors, and management is crucial in creating public awareness. Therefore, in this review, we have comprehensively discussed the current global epidemiology, drug resistance, challenges, risk factors, and preventive and treatment strategies of CRC. Additionally, there is a brief discussion on the CRC development pathways and recommendations for preventing and treating CRC.