Colon cancer is the second most common cancer in the Kingdom, and methods of prevention
is Colon cancer one of the most significant health challenges facing modern societies. In this context, specialists at King Fahd Specialist Hospital in Dammam urged individuals aged 45 to 75 to undergo regular screening for colorectal cancer. The doctors emphasized that early detection is the cornerstone of increasing recovery rates, reducing serious complications, and protecting lives from this preventable disease.
These medical calls coincided with the hospital's launch of a comprehensive awareness campaign under the slogan "My Health, My Choice," coinciding with Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This campaign aims to promote health awareness within the community, educate the public on effective prevention methods, and highlight the critical importance of early medical checkups before any concerning symptoms appear.
Historical context of the development of efforts to combat colon cancer
Historically, malignant tumors of the digestive system were considered silent diseases, difficult to detect until their later stages, leading to high mortality rates globally. However, with the remarkable medical advancements of recent decades, the global focus has shifted towards the concept of "preventive medicine." In Saudi Arabia, the healthcare system has undergone radical transformations. The Ministry of Health and specialized medical sectors began implementing national early detection programs years ago. This historic shift has contributed to changing societal perceptions and has made regular checkups a part of routine healthcare, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to improving quality of life in line with the goals of Vision 2030.
High infection rates and the importance of polyp removal
In this regard, Dr. Amira Balharith, a consultant in colorectal surgery, explained that the event aims to raise community awareness to reduce the spread of the disease. She indicated that infection rates have witnessed a significant increase recently, especially among men. She emphasized that early detection raises recovery rates to very high levels, noting that removing polyps in their early stages greatly contributes to preventing disease progression. She urged the target group to visit health centers for the necessary examinations.
Local and regional impact of early detection programs
Intensifying awareness campaigns has far-reaching strategic implications. Locally, early detection reduces the economic and operational burden on healthcare institutions, as the cost of treating advanced cases is significantly higher than the cost of preventative screenings. Regionally, Saudi Arabia stands out as a leading example in the Middle East in implementing population-based cancer screening programs, inspiring neighboring countries to adopt similar strategies. Internationally, these efforts are fully aligned with the World Health Organization's recommendations to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases.
Diagnostic methods and improving treatment outcomes
For his part, Dr. Khaled Saleh Sabr confirmed that this type of tumor is the second most common in the Kingdom, necessitating increased awareness of its dangers. He pointed out that the fecal occult blood test is one of the simplest available early detection methods, explaining that positive cases are referred for more precise examinations such as colonoscopy. Similarly, Dr. Waleed Al-Salawi, a consultant in oncology, explained that early detection directly contributes to improving treatment outcomes, advising those over 45 years of age to undergo colonoscopy as a preventative measure. Dr. Shaker Al-Shaker, a consultant in radiation therapy, also highlighted the vital role the hospital plays in providing advanced medical services, emphasizing the importance of not hesitating to seek consultation.
Early intervention and building a healthy community
Consultant colorectal surgeon Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Dulaijan explained that the event highlights colon polyps as a stage that can be treated early before they develop into malignant tumors, thus sparing patients complex surgeries or chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Assistant consultant Dr. Omar Khaled Ba'asim concluded by emphasizing that regular colonoscopies are essential, especially for those with a family history of the condition, urging everyone to commit to these examinations to reduce complications and build a healthier and more informed society.
