Investigatlon in the area of colorectal I cancer therapy has led to rapid clinical progress. This article explores both current modalities and newer observations. Staging mechanisms and biologic markers are changing, prevalence appears to be shifting to the right, and these changes will affect detection and treatment. Treatment Is matched to the extent of the disease, avoiding morbidity and mortality associated with extensive surgery and preserving continence for many patients. Although surgery Is still the primary therapy for colon cancer, adjuvant therapy Is now accorded an Increasing role. The value of follow-up Is currently under debate, but follow-up Is recommended for those who would be expected to benefit from therapy In case of recurrence. The exciting developments In the field of colon cancer provide great hope for Improvement In outcome.