Health Corner

Everyone associates "cancer" with death and incurable diseases. Is it true that cancer has no prevention methods and no early warning signs?

1. Is cancer common in Hong Kong? And what causes it?
The death rate from cancer in Hong Kong is quite high, accounting for about 30% of all deaths in the city. Common cancers such as colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer are among the most frequent.
In fact, most cancers may show some early warning signs or symptoms in their initial stages, and early detection can greatly improve the chances of cure.
Cancer is caused by abnormal uncontrolled proliferation of mutated cells in the body, forming tumors. Tumors are classified as benign or malignant, with malignant tumors referred to as cancer.

2. What are the early warning signs or symptoms of cancer?

• Weight loss

• Night sweats or fever

• Persistent fatigue

• Unexplained pain

• Skin changes: unexplained bruises or lumps

• Difficulty swallowing or persistent mouth ulcers

• Changes in bowel habits: indigestion, nausea, persistent constipation or diarrhea

3. How long is the golden period for cancer treatment?
These symptoms are often subtle and easily overlooked. It is therefore recommended everyone remain vigilant of their body’s condition and seek medical help promptly if feeling unwell.
While the progression time varies depending on cancer type with no fixed definition of "how many months," earlier cancer detection generally improves cure rates.
For example, according to the Hong Kong Cancer Foundation, the survival rate for colorectal cancer detected at stage one can be as high as 95.7%, but it drops to 68.7% by stage three. Early diagnosis usually means higher survival than late diagnosis. Thus, besides maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular health check-ups are advised.