[Effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening strategies: a review of current scientific evidence].

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies in the world. Its incidence and mortality could be reduce through primary prevention activities, which include healthy lifestyle behavior and avoidance of risk factors, and through screening (secondary prevention). Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different colorectal cancer screening strategies is within the scope of interest of different health professionals. Therefore, the aim of this review is to synthesis the current scientific evidence that addresses the issues of effectiveness of population-based colorectal cancer screening programs and new methods for its early diagnosis.