Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In recent years, there has also been an increasing incidence in early-onset CRC: About one in five new cases now occurs in people under 55, and clinicians are increasingly diagnosing patients in their late 20s, 30s, and early 40s.
Still, many people are diagnosed only after their cancer has already advanced or metastasized, underscoring the significant need for greater disease awareness and more effective treatment options beyond current standards of care.
At Johnson & Johnson, we are focused on improving outcomes for people living with colorectal cancer. Too many people with CRC still face limited or ineffective treatment options. Through partnerships with clinicians, researchers, patient advocacy groups and more, we are committed to changing that reality.
We are investing in research that explores novel mechanisms, biomarker-driven approaches, and innovative treatment strategies aimed at improving outcomes for people with CRC. This includes evaluating therapy combinations, investigating new targets, and deepening scientific understanding of how biomarker-defined subtypes respond to treatment.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer cases and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Biomarkers
As science advances, we now know that CRC is biologically diverse. Understanding a tumor’s specific biomarkers is essential to guiding care.
Key biomarkers provide critical information about how a person’s cancer may behave and which treatments may be most effective. Knowing your biomarkers can help unlock more personalized treatment strategies and may expand access to targeted therapies or clinical trials.
At Johnson & Johnson, we are committed to increasing awareness of the importance of biomarker testing and to supporting innovations that help people and their care teams make more informed and shared treatment decisions.
Transforming Care for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Our work in colorectal cancer spans the needs of people at different stages of their journey:
- Early-stage CRC: While often treatable, many individuals still face a significant risk of recurrence. Improved understanding of tumor biology—including biomarker status—can help guide more tailored follow-up strategies and future treatment decisions.
- Metastatic CRC (mCRC): People with metastatic disease continue to face limited durable treatment options and high rates of resistance. Here, biomarker insights are especially critical, helping guide the use of targeted therapies and combination approaches.
Every step forward brings us closer to a future where people diagnosed with CRC have access to more effective treatments, better quality of life, and greater confidence in their care journey.
