Colorectal cancer exacts a substantial toll on our society, in terms of both health care costs and human suffering. Yet the means to reduce this burden are within our reach today: It is estimated that current screening recommendations, properly employed, could enable us to avoid 50 percent of colorectal cancer deaths per year. Bridging the gap between those who do and do not get screened is an important goal. Development of new screening technologies and raising the awareness of the public and of health care professionals concerning the importance of colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and early detection are of major significance....

The members of the Colorectal Cancer PRG believe that, by applying and expanding our foundation of knowledge, and by teamwork, new technology, and perseverance, major progress will be made in the coming decade. At this gateway to the next era in colorectal cancer research, the Colorectal Cancer PRG has identified critical areas that span the continuum of colorectal cancer research and care.

(From Conquering Colorectal Cancer: A Blueprint for the Future -- The Report of the Colorectal Cancer Progress Review Group)