Learn About Cancer Warning Signs with Chula Pharmacists

    Cancer has become a significant global health concern, and in Thailand, it stands as a major public health issue. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are 139,206 new cancer cases annually, with 84,073 deaths each year. The five most common types of cancer in Thailand include liver and bile duct cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon and rectal cancer, and cervical cancer.

    The term "cancer" often evokes fear and concern about its potential impact. This week, we’ll explore its risk factors and warning signs to help raise awareness and guide preventive actions.

Cancer Risk Factors

    These are factors beyond your control:

    - Age: The risk increases with age.

    - Family History: A history of cancer in a first-degree relative.

    - Ethnicity: Certain racial or ethnic groups are more prone to specific cancers.

    - Personal History: Having had cancer in the past.

Though these factors cannot be changed, they don’t guarantee a cancer diagnosis. Fortunately, many modifiable risk factors can be addressed to lower the risk.

    Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce cancer risk:

    - Avoid smoking and alcohol.

    - Maintain a healthy weight.

    - Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, while avoiding high-fat and processed foods.

    - In Thailand, avoid eating improperly cooked freshwater fish, such as half-cooked, fermented, or pickled fish; ensure thorough cooking before consumption.

    - Limit exposure to hazardous chemicals and environmental pollution.

Living a balanced and careful lifestyle can greatly reduce cancer risk. Even small steps toward healthier habits are better than no effort at all.

The Importance of Early Detection

    - Stages 1–2: The disease is localized.

    - Stage 3: Cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes.

    - Stage 4: Cancer spreads to distant organs.

    Treatment outcomes are more favorable in the earlier stages, making early detection vital. For instance, many patients with early-stage breast or colon cancer achieve complete recovery.

Seven Warning Signs of Cancer

    1. Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as chronic diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination.

    2. Non-healing wounds, especially those that bleed or become infected.

    3. Unusual bleeding or discharge, such as blood in urine, stool, or phlegm.

    4. Lumps or abnormal growths, particularly in the breast or other areas.

    5. Persistent indigestion or difficulty swallowing, potentially indicating stomach or esophageal cancer.

    6. Changes in moles or skin tags, such as altered color, size, or shape.

    7. Chronic cough or hoarseness that doesn’t resolve, possibly signaling lung, throat, or laryngeal cancer.

    Many of these warning signs are non-specific and often mistaken for minor health issues. Self-medicating can delay diagnosis, leading to more severe disease progression. If any of these symptoms persist for over 1–2 months despite treatment, particularly if you have other risk factors like a family history of cancer or unhealthy lifestyle habits, consult a doctor promptly. Early intervention can prevent the disease from advancing and improve treatment outcomes.

    Let’s stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from cancer.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nattada Areepiam and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwasuwan

Faculty of Pharmacy Chulalongkorn University