1 INTRODUCTION Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the Western world and represents a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide.1, 2 CRC is projected to affect 2.5 million new individuals worldwide by 2035, mainly due to lifestyle changes associated with economic progress in developing countries, an aging population, and dietary habits.3, 4 Incidence and survival vary globally, with the highest incidence and survival rates in developed countries.3 The...