Colorectal Cancer
Global mortality data, country rankings, and trends for Colorectal Cancer from 1990 to 2021.
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Colorectal Cancer is a significant contributor to the global burden of disease. This page presents data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) Global Burden of Disease Study, showing mortality trends, country rankings, and regional patterns. Understanding the epidemiology of colorectal cancer helps inform public health interventions and resource allocation.
This data is sourced from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) Global Burden of Disease Study 2023, processed via Our World in Data. All rates are age-standardized per 100,000 population unless otherwise noted. Explore related mortality data using the links below.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer death, claiming approximately 935,000 lives annually. Incidence has historically been highest in high-income countries, but rates are rising rapidly in transitioning economies as populations adopt Western dietary patterns — high in red and processed meat, low in fibre — combined with increased obesity and physical inactivity. Genetic predisposition plays a role in 5-10% of cases (Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis), but the majority are sporadic. Most colorectal cancers develop from precancerous polyps over 10-15 years, creating a wide window for screening and prevention. Five-year survival exceeds 90% for localized disease but falls below 15% for distant metastases, underscoring the importance of early detection. There is also a concerning global trend of increasing colorectal cancer incidence in adults under 50.
Colonoscopy screening with polypectomy can prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they become malignant, reducing both incidence and mortality. Faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) and stool DNA tests offer non-invasive screening alternatives. Modifiable risk reduction includes maintaining a healthy body weight, regular physical activity, limiting red and processed meat consumption, adequate fibre intake, moderating alcohol use, and avoiding tobacco. Aspirin chemoprevention is recommended for certain high-risk individuals. For Lynch syndrome carriers, intensified surveillance and consideration of prophylactic surgery reduce cancer risk substantially.