Colorectal cancer ranks among the most prevalent cancers globally, impacting both men and women. Annually, it leads to nearly two million new cases and approximately one million fatalities, highlighting a pressing global health crisis and economic strain, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
In the last thirty years, there have been remarkable advancements in several areas, including screening processes, understanding the mechanisms of colorectal cancer development, and the genetic factors involved. Innovations in surgical methods, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and both adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments, as well as the introduction of biological therapies and immunotherapy, have resulted in better patient outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach to tackling metastases in organs like the liver, lungs, and peritoneum is also enhancing survival rates, even in advanced disease stages.
Part of the esteemed Oxford Textbooks in Oncology series, the Oxford Textbook of Colorectal Cancer delves into these advancements, including the latest breakthroughs in research and clinical practice. It investigates the impact of artificial intelligence on diagnostics and prognosis predictions while taking a holistic view of patient care. This text emphasizes the vital role of all healthcare professionals in the patient pathway, particularly the contributions of colorectal nurse specialists, marking what is being termed the ‘third healthcare revolution.’
Featuring insights from leading experts worldwide, this extensive, multidisciplinary textbook serves as an invaluable resource for both trainees and seasoned professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, specialist nurses, pharmacists, and all those engaged in colorectal cancer treatment and care.
