Colon and Rectum Cancer: A Growing Concern in Thailand
Colon and rectum cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is becoming increasingly common in many countries worldwide, including Thailand. According to Dr. Wirawut Imsamran, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, this type of cancer is one of the most prevalent and is causing significant public health problems.
The incidence of colon and rectum cancer is steadily rising due to changing lifestyles and habits. In Thailand, it is among the top five most common cancers, with a higher occurrence rate each year. Currently, it ranks as the third most common cancer in males and the second most common in females.
Dr. Napa Siriwiwattanakul, M.D., Director of the National Cancer Institute, attributes this increase to the changing lifestyle of Thai people. Consumption behaviors, such as the consumption of high-fat foods and the growing popularity of fast food, are considered significant risk factors for the disease. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, being overweight, and having a family history of the disease or polyps in the colon.
Colon cancer typically develops from intestinal polyps over a period of 10-15 years. Symptoms may only appear in the later stages of the disease, making treatment less effective. Common symptoms include abnormal defecation, constipation alternating with diarrhea, frequent defecation, incomplete defecation, mucus or blood in the stool, decreased stool size, and abdominal pain.
However, colon and rectum cancer can be screened for early detection, leading to more effective treatment and a higher chance of cure. Individuals aged 50 years and above should undergo annual screening for colorectal cancer by checking for latent blood in the stool. If abnormalities are detected, a colonoscopy should be performed. In cases of polyps or abnormalities in the large intestine, a biopsy will be conducted for further diagnosis.
Raising awareness about the risk factors and the importance of early screening is crucial in combating colon and rectum cancer. By adopting healthier lifestyles and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can reduce their risk and increase their chances of successful treatment.
What are the risk factors associated with colon and rectum cancer in Thailand?
Colon and rectum cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a growing concern in Thailand. This type of cancer is becoming increasingly common worldwide, and Thailand is no exception. According to Dr. Wirawut Imsamran, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, it is one of the most prevalent cancers and is posing significant public health challenges.
The incidence of colon and rectum cancer in Thailand is on the rise due to changing lifestyles and habits. It is now among the top five most common cancers in the country, and the number of cases keeps increasing each year. Currently, it is the third most common cancer in males and the second most common in females.
Dr. Napa Siriwiwattanakul, M.D., Director of the National Cancer Institute, attributes this increase to the changing lifestyle choices of Thai people. Consumption behaviors, such as a diet high in fat and the popularity of fast food, are considered significant risk factors for the disease. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, being overweight, and having a family history of the disease or polyps in the colon.
One of the challenges with colon cancer is that it typically develops from intestinal polyps over a period of 10-15 years. Symptoms may only appear in the later stages of the disease, making treatment less effective. Some common symptoms include abnormal bowel movements, constipation alternating with diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, incomplete bowel movements, mucus or blood in the stool, decreased stool size, and abdominal pain.
However, the good news is that colon and rectum cancer can be detected early through screening, leading to more effective treatment and a higher chance of cure. It is recommended that individuals aged 50 years and above undergo annual screening for colorectal cancer by checking for hidden blood in the stool. If any abnormalities are detected, a colonoscopy should be performed. In cases where polyps or abnormalities are found in the large intestine, a biopsy will be conducted for further diagnosis.
Raising awareness about the risk factors and the importance of early screening is crucial in combating colon and rectum cancer in Thailand. By adopting healthier lifestyles and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can reduce their risk and increase their chances of successful treatment.
This article provides a concise overview of the rising cases of colon and rectal cancer, highlighting the key causes, symptoms, and recommended screening measures. A must-read for anyone concerned about their health and prevention.