STATEMENT OF NEED / TARGET AUDIENCE

Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers in the United States, and the arena of colorectal cancer treatment continues to evolve. Published results from ongoing clinical trials lead to the emergence of new therapeutic agents and regimens and changes in indications, doses and schedules for existing treatments. In order to offer optimal patient care — including the option of clinical trial participation — the practicing medical oncologist must be well informed of these advances. By providing access to the latest research developments and expert perspectives, this CME activity assists medical oncologists in the formulation of up-to-date clinical management strategies.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Critically evaluate the clinical implications of emerging clinical trial data in gastrointestinal cancer treatment and incorporate these data into management strategies.
• Evaluate recent data and ongoing trials on various treatment approaches for localized colon cancer and explain the absolute risks and benefits of adjuvant chemotherapy to patients.
• Integrate emerging data on biologic therapies into the management of advanced colon and rectal cancers.
• Discuss neoadjuvant radiation therapy/chemotherapy approaches for patients with rectal cancer.

PURPOSE OF THIS ISSUE

The purpose of this enduring program is to offer the perspectives of Drs Goldberg, Grothey, Haller, Hochster, Meropol, Venook and Wolmark on the integration of emerging clinical research data into the management of colorectal cancer.

ACCREDITATION STATEMENT

Research To Practice is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

CREDIT DESIGNATION STATEMENT

Research To Practice designates this educational activity for a maximum of 4.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

HOW TO USE THIS CME ACTIVITY

This CME activity contains both audio and print components. To receive credit, the participant should listen to the CDs, review the monograph and complete the Post-test and Evaluation Form located in the back of this monograph or on our website. This monograph contains edited comments, clinical trial schemas, graphics and references that supplement the audio program. ColorectalCancerUpdate.com/GI 2007 includes an easy-to-use, interactive version of this monograph with links to relevant full-text articles, abstracts, trial information and other web resources indicated here in blue underlined text.

This program is supported by education grants from Genentech BioOncology and Sanofi-Aventis.

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Editor and Moderator:
Neil Love, MD