Contents



Preface

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the world, and its incidence is steadily increasing in developing nations. Yet, the majority of colorectal cancer is sporadic and largely attributable to the constellation of modifiable environmental risk factors characterizing westernization (e.g., obesity, physical inactivity, poor diets, alcohol drinking and smoking). As such, the burden of colorectal cancer is shifting towards low-income and middle-income countries as they become westernized. This book examines state-of-the-art research relating to the etiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. Section 1 presents the epidemiological aspect. Section 2 discusses imaging in diagnosis and treatment. Sections 3 and 4 explore surgery and related aspects. Section 5 con-

Given the complex physiopathology of colorectal tumors, treatment and management approaches should not be limited to a single specialty but should involve a number of specialties (surgery, gastroenterology, radiology, biology, oncology, radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, physiotherapy) in an integrated fashion. This book encompasses this concept, as Jim Valvano remembers: "Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul."

**Alberto Vannelli**

General Surgery (Valduce Hospital),

Director,

Como, Italy

cludes with a discussion of palliative care.
