Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and
mortality worldwide. There are well-established screening protocols involving fecal
testing, radiographic, and endoscopic evaluations that have led to decreased incidence
and mortality of CRC in the United States. In addition to screening for CRC, there
is interest in preventing colorectal neoplasia by targeting the signaling pathways
that have been identified in the pathway of dysplasia progressing to carcinoma. This
review will detail the efficacy of multiple potential preventative strategies including
lifestyle changes (physical activity, alcohol use, smoking cessation, and obesity);
dietary factors (dietary patterns, calcium, vitamin D, fiber, folate, and antioxidants
and micronutrients); and chemopreventive agents (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
statins, metformin, bisphosphonates, and postmenopausal hormonal therapy).
Keywords
chemoprevention - primary prevention - colorectal cancer - adenoma
