SHAH ALAM: The Health Ministry is concerned about the low awareness among Malaysians on the importance of colorectal screening.
Health Ministry (Medical Development Division) director Datuk Dr Azman Yacob says 88 per cent of adults aged 50 and above in Malaysia had never done faecal occult blood tests for colorectal cancer screening, and described this statistic as very concerning.
Symptoms include a sudden change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and a loss of appetite.
"Colorectal cancer can be prevented if detected early, ideally at stages one or two.
"With early screening, I am confident that our people will receive more comprehensive and efficient treatment for colorectal cancer.
"I urge all Malaysians to visit healthcare facilities for screening, as faecal occult blood testing is a simple procedure that involves examining stool samples for hidden blood cells," he said after officiating the Colorectal Cancer Awareness run, here today.
He was presenting on behalf of Health Minister Datuk Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Dr Azman said early detection reduced treatment costs, improved quality of life for patients diagnosed early and significantly increased the five-year survival rate compared to those diagnosed at stages three or four.
Citing data from the National Cancer Registry, he said the prevalence of colorectal cancer was higher among the Chinese compared to other communities.
"According to the National Cancer Registry from 2012 to 2016, 83.4 per cent of colorectal cancer cases were reported in individuals aged 50 and above, often diagnosed at stages three or four due to a lack of awareness of symptoms," he said.
Malaysian Society of Colorectal Surgeons president Dr Luqman Mazlan said it was such a common cancer, which colorectal surgeons encountered cases almost weekly.
He said two-thirds of colorectal cancer cases were diagnosed at advanced stages.
"So catching it early would be good for everyone, including patients, surgeons and the country as a whole.
"Although Malaysia has not yet mandated screening for colorectal cancer, once you reach the age of 45 or 50 years old, it is crucial to get checked.
"The primary purpose of screening is to detect cancer when there are no symptoms. If you have symptoms already, it may be too late," Dr Luqman said.
Regarding survival rates, Dr. Luqman said for stages one and two, the five-year survival rates were up to 90 per cent.
However, for stages three and four, the five-year survival rate drops by 50 per cent.
"About 70 per cent of those with colorectal cancer seek medical help at later stages, leading to more complex and costly treatments," he said.