Colorectal Cancer

The purpose of this course is to provide healthcare professionals with information regarding the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of colorectal cancer in order to improve adherence to established guidelines and, by extension, patient outcomes. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Discuss the epidemiology of colorectal cancer.

2. Identify modifiable colorectal cancer risk factors.

3. Describe nonmodifiable risk factors, including familial and genetic colorectal cancer syndromes.

4. Evaluate the role of colonoscopy in colorectal cancer screening, including strategies to improve effectiveness.

5. Identify available modalities used in colorectal cancer screening.

6. Apply the correct colorectal cancer screening interval for patients with specific findings.

7. Describe the pathways by which colorectal cancer develops.

8. Discuss the histologic features of colorectal cancer precursor lesions.

9. Relate the diagnostic and staging criteria for colon and rectal cancers.

10. Identify molecular and clinical factors used to determine prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer.

11. Select the appropriate treatment approach for early stage (I–III) colon cancer.

12. Choose the most effective treatment option for patients with rectal cancer.

13. Analyze the role of chemotherapy in the treatment of colorectal cancer, including the action of specific agents.

14. Discuss the treatment of metastatic and recurrent colorectal cancers.

15. Describe potential treatment-induced toxicities and adverse effects in patients with colorectal cancer.

16. Outline recommended follow-up for patients treated for colorectal cancer.


This 15-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.