Screening and Detection of Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal carcinoma represents the fourth most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Approximately 150,000 new cases and 56,000 deaths are predicted for 1997. Evidence exists that a reduction in mortality from colorectal carcinoma is feasible through early detection and removal of polyps. Guidelines for screening and surveillance have been established by a number of societies in hopes of providing a cost-effective means of realizing this goal.