Risk factors for the development of colorectal carcinoma and their modification.

In this article the authors review factors determining risk for the development of colorectal cancer (CC) and their modification. Emphasis is placed on understanding the difference between average risk and high risk individuals. Risk factors including genetics, diet, environment, and coexistent diseases are discussed. The data regarding modification of risk via dietary, pharmaceutical, and prophylactic endoscopic and surgical interventions are reviewed.