The Tumor Trail: From Genetic Alterations to Targeted Therapies in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths globally. Projections indicate a 60–71.5% increase in CRC mortality by 2035, especially in developing countries adopting Western dietary habits. Although genetic factors account for around 25% of cases, lifestyle-related risk factors such as obesity, inactivity, and unhealthy diets play a major role. CRC generally develops through three pathways: sporadic (70%), hereditary (25%), and colitis-associated (5%), often following a slow 10–15 year adenoma-tocarcinoma progression. Current diagnostic tools, including fecal tests and endoscopy, miss many early-stage cases. Treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy (e.g., 5-FU, oxaliplatin, irinotecan), and targeted therapies, with immunotherapy emerging as a promising option. However, issues like late-stage diagnosis, therapy resistance, and recurrence remain prevalent. Research is increasingly focused on enhancing early detection via liquid biopsies and tailoring prevention through screening and lifestyle interventions to better manage CRC worldwide.