**1. Introduction**

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality rates vary across worldwide, with distinct gradients across human development levels were seen, pointing towards an increasing burden in countries in transition. In general, CRC incidence and mortality rates are still rising rapidly in many low-income and middle-income countries, particularly in Eastern Europe, Asia, and South America. While stabilizing or decreasing trends are seen in highly developed countries such as Japan, the United States and Australia, where rates remain among the highest in the world [1].

CRC mortality can be reduced if cases are detected and treated early. When identified early, CRC is more likely to respond to effective treatment and can result in a greater probability of surviving, less morbidity, and less expensive treatment. On the other hand, CRC screening aims to identify individuals with abnormalities suggestive of cancer or pre-cancer who have not developed any symptoms and to refer them for diagnosis and treatment. Nonetheless, a screening program is a far more complex public health intervention compared to early diagnosis [2].
