The seventh King's Fund Forum was held in London from 18th to 20th June. The panel was asked to address four questions: (1) Would the detection and breakout of polyps reduce the incidence of cancer of the colon and rectum? (2) Are there other preventive measures which will safely reduce the incidence and mortality of cancer of the colon and rectum? (3) How effective are current treatment for cancer of the colon and rectum at improving survival and quality of life? (4) What is the direction for future research?