Response to "Colorectal cancer in Saudi Arabia: Turning epidemiological transition into prevention-oriented action".

We thank Dr. Hu for the thoughtful comments on our study examining the burden and projected trends of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Saudi Arabia. In this response, we clarify that the increasing absolute CRC burden largely reflects population growth, aging, improved case detection, and enhanced survival rather than a worsening underlying disease risk. We further discuss the narrowing sex disparity in CRC incidence, emphasizing the need for additional research to elucidate sex-specific risk factors and screening uptake. We acknowledge the limitations of trend-based forecasting models and support the incorporation of scenario-based projections in future studies. Finally, we reinforce the importance of strengthening CRC screening, integrating risk communication into primary care, enhancing data linkage, and promoting healthy lifestyles to translate epidemiological evidence into effective prevention and control strategies.