OFD 2025: Colorectal Cancer: Overview and Therapeutic Perspective

Colorectal cancer is among the most prevalent cancers globally and continues to represent a significant cause of cancer-related deaths. This presentation is designed to give participants a clear and practical understanding of the disease, with a focus on aspects most relevant to pharmacy practice.

We will begin by reviewing the epidemiology of colorectal cancer, including incidence, mortality, risk factors, common signs and symptoms, and current approaches to screening. The session will then cover the major types of colorectal cancer and outline standard treatment strategies such as surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapies.

Attention will be directed toward pharmacological management across early and advanced stages, along with the role of key molecular biomarkers that influence therapeutic choices. The presentation will conclude by highlighting the contributions of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in optimizing patient care through education, treatment monitoring, and management of adverse effects.
 

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:

1. Identify common signs, symptoms, and risk factors of colorectal cancer, as well as current screening recommendations.
2. Describe general treatment approaches, including surgery, radiotherapy, and pharmacotherapy, for colorectal cancer.
3. Outline pharmacological treatments used in early-stage and advanced colorectal cancer.
4. Identify major molecular biomarkers and mutations in colorectal cancer and their therapeutic implications.
5. Discuss the role of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in patient education, monitoring, and management of treatment-related adverse effects.