title: Colorectal cancer prevention: choosing the most effective population strategy using bio-mathematical approaches.
abstract: Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death globally, though in theory at least, it is eminently preventable in many cases. Preventive strategies are either primary or secondary, but for population strategists, choosing the 'best' approach is not straightforward. Here, we summarize the potential role of bio-mathematical modelling, specifically focusing on a model that combines known details of crypt cell kinetics with stochastic models of cell birth and death processes. Examples are discussed of the potential population effects of an agent that modulates cell kinetics, such as aspirin, vs one that merely reduces mutational rates.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Academic Division of Cancer Studies, Christie Hospital NHS Trust, Manchester M20 4BX, UK. arenehan@picr.man.ac.uk
authors.forename: A G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Renehan
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Luebeck
mesh_terms: D000236:Adenoma / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001241:Aspirin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods; D008954:Models, Biological; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D018426:SEER Program
chemical_list: D001241:Aspirin