Cancer: A Silent Threat to Be Aware Of
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise each year. According to the National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan (2018-2024) by the Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, cancer is a major public health challenge faced by every country.
Cancer Statistics in Thailand
- Over 140,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed each year
- More than 80,000 deaths occur annually due to cancer
(Source: Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand)
Causes of Cancer
More than 90% of cancer cases are caused by external factors, rather than genetics alone. Key risk factors include:
- Dietary habits: Consumption of grilled meats, fried foods, high-fat foods, or repetitive unhealthy eating patterns
- Smoking: Increases the risk of lung cancer, oral cancer, and other cancers
- Alcohol consumption: Increases the risk of liver cancer and esophageal cancer
- Chronic stress: Affects the immune system
- Radiation exposure: Such as exposure to UV radiation or frequent medical radiation
- Chemical exposure: Toxins from pesticides or industrial chemicals
- Infections: Hepatitis B and C viruses (liver cancer), HPV (cervical cancer)
- Obesity and lack of physical activity
- Insufficient consumption of fruits and vegetables
7 Warning Signs of Cancer
1.Changes in bowel or bladder habits
2.Persistent sores that do not heal
3.Unusual lumps or swelling in the body
4.Difficulty swallowing
5.Unusual bleeding or discharge
6.Changes in moles or warts
7.Persistent cough or hoarseness
Some Cancers May Not Show Symptoms
Certain types of cancer may not present any symptoms in the early stages. Cancer screening is the most effective way to detect abnormalities early and increase the chances of successful treatment.
Cancers That Can Be Screened
- Breast cancer (Mammogram)
- Colorectal cancer (Colonoscopy)
- Lung cancer (Low-dose CT scan)
- Cervical cancer (Pap smear and HPV DNA test)
Top 5 Most Common Cancers in Thailand
1.Liver and bile duct cancer
More common in males than females by up to 3 times
Risk factors: Hepatitis B and C, alcohol consumption, aflatoxins, consumption of raw food
2.Breast cancer
Common in women aged 40 and above, but can also occur in men
Risk factors: High-fat diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise
3.Lung cancer
More than 85% of cases are caused by smoking
Risk factors: Smoking, secondhand smoke, air pollution
4.Colorectal cancer
Common and one of the leading causes of death
Risk factors: Age over 50, family history, chronic intestinal inflammation
5.Cervical cancer
Common in women aged 30-70 years
Risk factors: HPV infection, early sexual activity, smoking
Cancer Prevention
- Avoid high-risk behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and processed foods
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
- Exercise regularly
- Undergo regular health check-ups and cancer screenings
- Get vaccinated against HPV and Hepatitis B
Source : Princsuvarnabhumi
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team
PRINC Hospital Suvarnabhumi
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