Mortality from colorectal cancer is less threatening than it was 10 years ago, but this cancer is still a leading cause of death in the United States and the world. Careful history taking, education about the importance of a high-fiber, low-fat diet and exercise, and regular screening are important steps in improving outcomes. For the busy primary care physician and the equally busy patient, prevention can become a low priority. However, the benefits of early preventive intervention are clearly worth the effort.