Collaborating to Curb Colorectal Cancer

Through recent advances in treatment and effective screening, outcomes for colorectal cancer have vastly improved. However, much remains to be done to eliminate the disease, which continues to be the second most common cause of cancer deaths within the U.S. Colorectal cancer disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, including people of color and those living in poverty. Additionally, rates among people 55 or younger are increasing every year, and more young people are being affected than ever before.

At Fred Hutch Cancer Center, scientists are working to change that. For William M. Grady, MD, a professor at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, understanding why colorectal cancer develops is key to improving outcomes for patients, eliminating disparities, and preventing this disease altogether.