Recent advances in the systemic treatment of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Over the past decade, advances in molecular diagnostics and the emergence of targeted and immune therapies have transformed the management of metastatic disease. This review focuses primarily on the most recent advances and pivotal data published in the past two years that have influenced clinical practice. Determination of RAS, BRAF, MSI/dMMR, HER2, and KRAS G12C status is essential for personalized treatment selection. Biomarker-driven targeted therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and novel oral agents have significantly improved patient survival and quality of life. Multidisciplinary integration of systemic and local treatments remains critical for sustained disease control. Metastatic colorectal cancer is increasingly becoming a chronically manageable disease, with the dual goals of prolonging survival and maintaining quality of life.