MSCRS organizes inaugural fun run to raise colorectal cancer awareness

Colorectal cancer has become the most common cancer among Malaysian men and the second most common among women, raising significant health concerns nationwide. Disturbingly, there is a growing number of cases among younger adults under the age of 40. Even more alarming is the fact that up to 70% of patients seek medical attention only at a later stage, largely due to a lack of awareness regarding the symptoms of colorectal cancer.

In response to this pressing health issue, the Malaysian Society of Colorectal Surgeons (MSCRS) is launching its first-ever Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign. This initiative includes a fun run with two distance options—4KM and 7KM—to engage the public and spread awareness about colorectal cancer and the critical importance of early detection through screening.

Late Detection and Its Implications

“Seeking treatment at a late stage leaves patients with less than a 10% chance of survival. This puts a strain on the Malaysian healthcare system,” stated Dr. Nurhashim Haron, the Organizing Chairman of the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024. Dr. Nurhashim emphasized that common symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as blood in stools, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss, often appear only when the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. This underscores the need for regular screening since early colorectal cancers are usually asymptomatic.

“Screening can be done with stool or blood tests at your nearest general practitioner, Klinik Kesihatan, or hospitals. The earlier you detect it, the better the chances of a cure,” advised Dr. Nurhashim. He also stressed the importance of public education on early symptoms and signs of colorectal cancer to encourage timely medical consultations.

“We aim to educate the public on how to prevent colorectal cancer or catch it early when it’s most treatable,” Dr. Nurhashim added.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024

The Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024 is scheduled to take place on July 7, 2024, at Eco Ardence Malaysia and will be officially launched by the Health Minister, YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad. The event kicks off with the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Run at 7:00 AM, offering participants the option to run either 4 KM or 7 KM. To further empower attendees, a public forum on colorectal cancer is organized alongside other engaging activities such as Zumba sessions, a health fair, and a lucky draw with exciting prizes.

“We are calling for participation from all walks of life. Come with your family and friends to learn more about colorectal cancer and how to prevent it,” concluded Dr. Nurhashim.

To register for the run or to learn more about colorectal cancer, visit the MSCRS website at www.colorectalmy.org, Checkpoint Asia at https://v2.checkpointspot.asia/event/ccar2024, or the Malaysian Society of Colorectal Surgeons’ Facebook page.

By raising awareness and encouraging early screening, the MSCRS hopes to reduce the incidence of late-stage colorectal cancer and improve survival rates, ultimately easing the burden on Malaysia’s healthcare system.