Colorectal cancer management in the United Kingdom: current practice and challenges

This paper explores the current situation of colorectal cancer (CRC) management in the UK. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the UK, and the second and third leading cause of new cancer cases in women and men, respectively. These figures have increased over the past decade and, coupled with poorer survival rates compared to the European average and an ageing population, have recently led to the implementation of national screening in 2007–2009. Staffing adjustments are being made in preparation for national CRC-related demands, and national treatment guidelines are currently being revised. Access to new targeted treatments, however, is very limited due to negative NICE guidance and access is granted to only a select few. Targets have been created with regards to time to diagnosis and treatment, which are generally being met by the majority of hospitals. Overall, the focus on screening activities in the UK will hopefully result in fewer end-stage CRC cases and associated costlier treatments.