Activity Rationale and Purpose

According to 2006 Cancer Facts and Figures, the colon and rectum were identified as the third most common sites for new cancer and cancer-related death for both sexes. With 148,610 new cases and 55,170 deaths estimated to occur in 2006, it is important that oncology specialists and nononcology clinicians who share in the care of oncology patients base their practice on current knowledge of clinical practice guidelines. Application of recommended stage-related treatments, safe administration of chemotherapeutic regimens, timely implementation of supportive care guidelines, and evidence-based management of drug side effects and toxicities in daily practice help maximize treatment benefit.

This educational activity provides an update on the current status of colorectal cancer (CRC), including epidemiology, early detection, and survival trends. The latest chemotherapeutic and supportive care advances in CRC are addressed. The overall purpose is to provide health care professionals with information on state-of-the-art treatment for CRC to assist them in educating, supporting, and caring for patients.