Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with an estimated 147,950 new cases and 53,200 deaths in 2020. It is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, and it can be prevented, detected, and treated.

Colorectal cancer is often curable if it is found and treated early. Screening tests, such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, can help find precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer early, when it is most treatable. Treatment options for colorectal cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

Progress is being made in the fight against colorectal cancer. New treatments, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy, are showing promise in improving the outlook for patients with advanced disease. Additionally, research is ongoing to develop new screening methods and prevention strategies. With early detection and treatment, colorectal cancer can be a beatable disease.