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Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, surpassed only by lung cancer. With an estimated 153,020 new diagnoses in 2023 and around 52,550 fatalities, the urgency for effective prevention, early detection, and treatment has never been greater.
Awareness is a critical weapon in the battle against colorectal cancer. Many cases are preventable, and screening methods such as colonoscopy can not only detect cancer at early stages but also prevent it by removing precancerous polyps. The survival rate for localized cancer of the colon or rectum is notably high at 90.9 percent, but this figure drops significantly once the cancer spreads.
The rise of early-onset colorectal cancer, defined as diagnoses before age 50, is particularly concerning. The incidence has increased about 2 percent per year in recent years, now accounting for approximately 12 percent of all colorectal cancer cases. This trend has led to more cases of metastatic cancer in younger individuals, even those in their twenties and thirties.
Research is ongoing to understand and address these challenges. A study led by Andreana Holowatyj, PhD, MS, at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, is examining disparities in early-onset colorectal cancer by exploring somatic mutations among patients from different racial groups.
In the realm of therapeutics, innovative approaches are being developed to target colorectal cancer more effectively. Quanta Therapeutics recently announced a late-breaking presentation of QTX3544, a KRAS^G12V-preferring multi-KRAS inhibitor, at the AACR Annual Meeting. This inhibitor shows promise in targeting RAS-driven cancers with its potency, selectivity, and oral bioavailability.
Similarly, Crossbow Therapeutics is making strides with its first development candidate, CBX-250, a potent T-cell engager for the treatment of myeloid leukemia. This therapy targets a specific peptide-human leukocyte antigen complex, offering a potential therapeutic window for myeloid malignancies that lack tumor-specific surface antigens.
The collaboration between Crossbow and MD Anderson Cancer Center underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing cancer research and developing novel therapies.
As we look to the future, the commitment to understanding the complexities of colorectal cancer and developing targeted treatments offers hope for better outcomes. The ongoing research and clinical trials will be pivotal in turning the tide against this formidable disease.
For more information on colorectal cancer and the latest research advancements, visit the American Association for Cancer Research and Cancer Today websites.