A new study of the trends and patterns of colorectal cancer (CRC) has shown that incidence and mortality vary up to 10-fold worldwide and correlate with the human development index — used to rank countries by socioeconomic factors. In low and middle-income countries, a rapid increase in CRC was found, possibly reflecting adoption of a more Western lifestyle. In developed countries with the highest rates of CRC, trends are stabilizing or decreasing. Given the expected increase in CRC burden in the future, the researchers conclude that targeted resource-dependent actions are needed, including improved primary prevention and better early detection strategies.