Epidemiology of environmental factors related to beta-catenin pathway and its impact on the development and progression of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex disease, determined by genetic, environmental and lifestyle-associated risk factors. Genetic (inherited) factors have great influence on its development; however, most cases of CRC are sporadic and gradually develop over several years. The main environmental risk factors are associated with β-catenin signaling pathway, including obesity, lack of physical activity, consumption of red and processed meats, alcoholism, and smoking. The pathway is related to cell homeostasis regulation and cell self-renewal during embryogenesis and adulthood. The main recommendation for pre-venting the development of CRC is to reduce the risk factors, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and grains, exercise regularly and limit the consumption of both alcohol and tobacco. However, family history and the presence of a he-reditary syndrome increase the risk, which is why carrying out periodic examinations to detect CRC is suggested, using development predictors such as biochemical and molecular markers, which are discussed in this work.