Locals need to know more about cancer — doctor

KOTA KINABALU: It is imperative that the local communities know more about cancer, said Queen Elizabeth Hospital director Dr William Gotulis.

“It is important for people to know that cancer need to be detected early, before it can spread to other parts of the body and affects the body function of the person inflicted,” said Dr William who was represented by QEH deputy clinical 1 director, Dr Yogendra A/L Panchalinggam at the World Cancer Day event.

The event is an initiative of the International Cancer Control Union (UICC) and celebrated globally on February 4.

Dr William explained that cancer occurs when normal body cells mutate and become a tumor.

He added that the UICC estimates that 9.6 million people die annually from cancer and a third of the cancer can be prevented.

He also said that 3.7 million lives can be saved annually by implementing suitable strategies for prevention, early detection and treatment.

He warned that failure to act would result in 13 million deaths due to cancer by the year 2030.

Meanwhile, a total of 368 people attended the event held at the QEH.

“This is the second campaign held at QEH and the theme for this year is ‘I am and I will’. The call stresses the importance of individual action and commitment in the war against cancer worldwide,” he said.

Dr William said that everyone was encouraged to make a personal commitment to reduce the impact of cancer as one out of three types of cancer can be treated if it is detected early and treated correctly.

Through the implementation of suitable prevention strategies, early detection and treatment, we can save up to 3.7 million lives every year, he said.

He stressed that through knowledge, the risk factor could be reduced.