[Colonic carcinoma--state of the art. Primary and secondary prevention].

Considering the high incidence and mortality rate of colorectal cancer, great efforts are made for primary and secondary prevention. By doing so, primary prophylaxis includes the use of protective measures in order to prevent the development of adenomas and carcinomas. Epidemological studies have shown that nutrition or medication (e.g. NSAID) have an immediate influence on the pathogenesis of colorectal carcinomas. Secondary prevention includes early diagnosis and treatment of precursors of carcinomas. Considering this, colonoscopy is the cheapest and gentlest method and therefore the screening method of choice.