Colorectal Cancer Modeling

The CISNET Colorectal Working Group (CWG) consists of three modeling groups and a coordinating center. The investigators are focused on the long-term objective of reducing the impact of colorectal cancer (CRC) by providing the information needed to address key policy questions and prioritize future research. The models describe the natural history of colorectal cancer using different underlying structures, which enables model comparisons that explore the impact of structural uncertainty. Despite large increases in screening in the past two decades, colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The CWG’s research has shown that more than half of these deaths could be prevented by better use of available screening interventions. In this cycle, the CWG will continue to use microsimulation modeling to evaluate and help prioritize interventions to further reduce the burden of colorectal cancer. The specific aims are:

  1. Evaluate the impact of screening as practiced in the US
  2. Inform the debate about the increase in CRC incidence before age 50
  3. Explore the effectiveness of precision screening and surveillance
  4. Address other emerging issues and opportunities in CRC control such as genomic biomarkers
  5. Develop and use high-performance computing methods

Research Highlights

Policy and Individual Decision Tools

CISNET Model Registry