Recently, population statistic of both Thailand and abroad has indicated that cancer is one of the top causes of death in patients with chronic diseases. However, we can help to boost our immunity and prevent the chances of cancer by: maintaining a healthy nutritious diet, boosting strength through regular exercise, having a positive frame of mind, and perhaps most importantly we can reduce the risk of disease by early detection of abnormalities. There are several different cancer detection methods, all of which are efficient and effective in both prevention and treatment.
The Importance of Early Cancer Detection
Although cancer may be a frightening prospect for a majority of people, today several forms and types of cancer are fully treatable. Significantly, there are a large number of cancer survivors especially in developed countries such as those in Europe and the United States. Research has indicated that the death rate of cancer patients has reduced due the scientific advancement in cancer treatment including improvement in technology, detection/diagnostic equipment, as well as genetic testing contributing to an early detection of abnormal cells before they turn into cancer cells thus increasing the chances of effective treatment.
Cancer screening refers to the use of tests taken to detect cancer early on in people who have not yet shown symptoms of disease. The aim of screening is to reduce ailments and mortality caused by cancer. It is an effective method which is widely accepted and beneficial to people who are at risk or concerned with regards to cancer. This is important as it is one of the first actions taken to prevent disease. Furthermore, patients whose cancer is detected early on possess a higher chance of cured disease, complete recovery, increased quality of life and longevity.
Wattanosoth Early Detection Center serves patients of all ages and nationalities by preventing and detecting risks associated with cancer. The center provides personalized and holistic care via multidisciplinary specialists under professional and hospital standards with a patient-oriented approach allowing for quick and early treatment. Following early detection of cancer measures are taken to ensure high quality treatment is maintained throughout the process increasing the chances of a full recovery. The objective is to provide comprehensive services in the following:
• Cancer risk assessment and education
• Cancer risk screening and screening follow up
• Molecular genetic testing and counseling
• Cancer surveillance
• Personalized cancer prevention
Seven warning signs to seek medical support
• Loss of blood or discharge of other abnormalities from the body such as excess leucorrhea
• Presence of lumps or bumps that experiences rapid growth
• Chronic wound or gangrene
• Abnormalities or changes in defecation and urination patterns
• Hoarseness or chronic coughing
• Difficulty in swallowing, loss of appetite or weight
• Changes that occur in warts moles, and birthmark such as unusual growth
Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
มะเร็งปากมดลูก
Cervical Cancer
There is sufficient evidence that screening of women between the ages of 21 and 65 years for cervical cancer precursors every 3-5 years reduces the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer.
According to The American Cancer Society, all women who have been vaccinated against HPV should still follow the screening recommendations for their age groups similar to those women who have not been vaccinated.
Reference: Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
American Cancer Society 2015
Lung Cancer
The American Cancer Society suggests that heavy smokers (at least a 30 pack-year history*) and are either still smoking or have quit smoking within the past 15 years should be tested for lung cancer especially with an annual low-dose CT scan of the chest.
*A pack-year is the number of cigarette pack smoked each day multiplied by the number of years a person has smoked.
Reference: Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
Prostate Cancer
The American Cancer Society recommends men, starting at age 45 years old who have a father or brother who had prostate cancer before age 65, should consult with physician to get a PSA blood test (with or without rectal exam).
Reference: Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
Liver Cancer
Overwhelming lines of epidemiological evidence have indicated that persistent infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HVC) is a major risk for the development of liver cancer. Thus hepatitis B profile (HBsAg, Anti-HBs and Anti-HBc) and hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) are theoretically used for basic screening and closed monitoring of liver cancer.
Colon and Rectal Cancer
Following the recommendations made by The American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute, starting at age 50, both men and women should get a colon and rectal cancer screening by either sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy at least 5-10 years.
Reference: Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
American Cancer Society 2015 and National Cancer Institute 2015
Ovarian Cancer
Recently, CA 12-5 and HE4 are widely used as tumor markers for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Approximately 80-85% of women with ovarian cancer have raised these tumor markers compared with women who do not have ovarian cancer.
Reference: Cancer Research UK, Assessing Ovarian Cancer Risk with the ROMA Algorithm (2014)
Why choose Wattanosoth Early Detection Center?
Wattanasoth Early Detection Center is the first of its kind in Thailand to offer comprehensive holistic services with regards to cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up surveillance.
Access to the latest medical technology and equipment to help diagnose cancer and reduce risk factors
All patients will receive services in cancer screening and risk assessment that is personalized dependent on several factors such as age, sex, genetic history, and pre-existing conditions. Patients will also receive continual care and follow-up surveillance by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who focus on both physical and emotional aspects of cancer care.
Wattanosoth Early Detection Center (personalized medicine) was awarded for “Thailand ICT Excellence Award 2016” in the category of “Innovation Project”
