MSCRS’ Colorectal Cancer Awareness Run 2024 sees impressive turnout

The Malaysian Society of Colorectal Surgeons (MSCRS) held its highly anticipated Colorectal Cancer Awareness Run 2024 today, drawing an impressive turnout of around 500 participants. The event, part of the broader Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024, aims to address the rising concerns regarding colorectal cancer, which is the leading cancer in men and the second most common in women in Malaysia.

Representing the Minister of Health YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad at the event, the Director of the Medical Development Division, Dato’ Dr. Mohd Azman bin Yacob, emphasized the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection. Recent findings from the National Health & Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 revealed that 88% of adults aged 50 and above had never undergone a faecal occult blood test, a critical screening tool for colorectal cancer.

Early Detection key to reducing mortality

According to MSCRS, colorectal cancer has up to a 90% survival rate five years after diagnosis at an early stage, but this drops to 50% at later stages. Speaking at the press conference held in conjunction with the run, MSCRS Vice President and Organising Chairman of the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024, Dr. Nurhashim Haron, underscored the importance of early detection. “Our goal is to educate the public, especially the younger generation, about the importance of early detection and prevention.” he noted.

Dr. Nurhashim also highlighted modifiable risk factors that can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, including maintaining an active lifestyle, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and processed foods, reducing the intake of red meat, saturated fats, and sugar, and increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, and fiber.

Engaging Public Forum and Support from Sponsors

Following the run, MSCRS organized a Colorectal Cancer Public Forum featuring a talk by Dr. Nik Qisti and a panel discussion with medical experts including Dr. Shafiqawi Adznan and Dr. Mayuha Rusli. The forum also included inspiring stories from two colorectal cancer survivors, offering hope and motivation to attendees.

Dr. Nurhashim expressed gratitude to the event’s sponsors and partners, including Eco Ardence as the venue sponsor, KPJ Healthcare Berhad as the gold sponsor, Press Metal as the silver sponsor, Picaso Hospital as the bronze sponsor, and SPRG Malaysia as the communication partner. “Their support has been instrumental in making our Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign 2024 a success,” he concluded.

Founded in 2003, the MSCRS continues to dedicate its efforts to raising awareness about colorectal cancer through various initiatives such as community runs, public forums, and health talks. For more information, the public can visit www.colorectalmy.org.