By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, March 7: Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, stands as the second most prevalent cancer in Sarawak, with around 350 patients diagnosed each year.
Deputy Premier of Sarawak-cum-Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG) Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, highlighted the alarming statistic that approximately 70 per cent of colorectal cancer patients are diagnosed at stage three and four.
“That suggests that just 30 per cent of patients can be cured of their cancer.
“We know that colorectal cancer is curable. Tun Taib (the late former Sarawak Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud) suffered colorectal cancer for over 20 years but was able to survive since it was in stage one.
“That’s why this colorectal cancer awareness campaign is very important because it’s the second highest most common cancer and 70 per cent are diagnosed in stages three and four,” he told reporters after launching the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month campaign today at the Sarawak General Hospital’s (SGH) Day Care Centre here.
He went on to state that the risk of colorectal cancer increases after the age of 50, and that colorectal cancer is the most common cancer among males.
The minister also stated that the rate of recovery for persons diagnosed with stage three and four colorectal cancer is poor, and warned the public not to wait until the cancer has progressed to a dangerous level before seeking treatment.
Meanwhile, SGH consultant colorectal surgeon Dr Kenneth Voon stated during his talk on colorectal cancer at the campaign that the majority of colorectal cancer patients are men and women over the age of 50.
He pointed out that indicators of colorectal cancer include persistent abdominal pain or discomfort, blood or mucus in the stool, changes in stool form, changes in bowel habits, weight loss and loss of appetite, and anaemia symptoms such as tiredness, fainting, and stumbling.
“Depending on the stage of the cancer, surgery is the primary treatment option, along with chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” he explained.
Dr Voon further advised that colorectal cancer can be avoided by eating more vegetables and fruits, exercising regularly, limiting red meat consumption, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol consumption.
Among others present at the event were State health director Dr Veronica Lugah, SGH director Dr Ngian Hie Ung, and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) consultant colorectal surgeon and lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Aini Fahriza Ibrahim. — DayakDaily
