Sections
Recent Articles
Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Manila, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul
MANILA | NOVEMBER 16 | SM MALL OF ASIA ARENA
The world’s most iconic virtual singer, Hatsune Miku, is set to electrify audiences once again... read more
Key Insights by Dr. Zee Ying Kiat
Cancer remains one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time, yet with the rise of new technologies and medical breakthroughs, hope continues to grow. In a compelling presentation, Dr. Zee explored the evolving landscape of cancer detection and treatment, weaving personal experience with cutting-edge science to underscore the critical importance of awareness, prevention, and innovation.
Personal Connection and the Role of Technology
Dr. Zee began the talk with a powerful personal narrative, emphasizing how everyday technology—such as the Apple Watch—has already started to play a role in health monitoring. This innovative use of wearables to track health metrics reflects a broader trend toward proactive, technology-driven healthcare, which may contribute to the earlier detection of severe conditions such as cancer.
The presentation then unfolded into a comprehensive exploration of cancer: its definition, causes, and the myths that persist despite advances in science.
What Is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. It often results from genetic mutations, which can be triggered by environmental factors or random errors in cellular processes. Importantly, only about 3–5% of cancers are inherited, emphasizing the impact of lifestyle and environmental exposures.
How Common Is Cancer?
Global and Local Statistics
Cancer is alarmingly prevalent. Globally, approximately 19 million new cases are reported annually. This number is expected to surge to 26 million by 2030.
In the Philippines alone, 2022 saw 189,000 new cases, making cancer the second leading cause of death.
Risk of Diagnosis
Roughly 1 in 5 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 75, highlighting the importance of vigilance and early detection.
Preventing Cancer: Lifestyle as Medicine
Dr. Zee highlighted that up to one-third of cancer cases are preventable through simple yet powerful lifestyle choices:
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.
- Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
- Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
- Protect against UV radiation and get vaccinated against cancer-related infections such as HPV and hepatitis B.
- Screening and Early Detection
One of the most vital strategies in the fight against cancer is early detection—finding cancer before symptoms appear can significantly improve outcomes.
Recommended Screenings
Breast Cancer: Women should begin mammography screening in their 40s or 50s.
Colorectal Cancer: Screening, including colonoscopies, is recommended starting at age 50.
Cervical Cancer: Pap smears and HPV tests for women 25+.
Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals aged 55–80, especially those with a history of heavy smoking.
Liver Cancer: Regular screening is recommended for individuals with risk factors, such as cirrhosis.
Why Early Detection Matters
When cancer is detected at an early stage, treatment options are broader, and outcomes are significantly better. Early diagnosis often means less aggressive treatment and a higher chance of survival.
Treatment Options: A Team-Based, Targeted Approach
Modern cancer treatment involves a collaborative effort among healthcare professionals and is tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer.
Available Modalities
Surgery: Effective for removing localized tumors with new techniques that minimize recovery time.
Chemotherapy: Commonly used to destroy fast-dividing cancer cells.
Hormonal Therapy: Targets hormone-sensitive cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecules that fuel cancer growth, resulting in more precise treatment.
Immunotherapy: A groundbreaking approach that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, showing promise for conditions previously deemed untreatable.
Hormonal Therapy: Hormones are implicated in some types of cancer. Hormones are chemical messages produced by the body and carried via the bloodstream to cause changes in other cells and tissues. By adjusting hormone levels with drugs, doctors can stop some cancers growing and even kill them.
Radiotherapy: May be given together with Chemotherapy. Uses high energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells. Around 40% of cancer patients will receive radiotherapy at some point, either to treat their cancer or to relieve symptoms.
Treatment is dependent on cancer site, stage, and patient's overall health.
Dispelling Myths
Dr. Zee also addressed common misconceptions surrounding cancer. For instance, not all tumors are cancerous, and cancer is not necessarily a death sentence—especially with early detection and modern treatments. Misinformation can delay diagnosis and treatment, making education a vital part of cancer care.
Hope Through Innovation
Dr. Zee’s insights reinforce the message that while cancer remains a formidable disease, the tools at our disposal—ranging from wearable tech to precision therapies—are growing more powerful every year. Public awareness, preventive practices, and timely screenings are among the most effective weapons we have.
As Dr. Zee emphasized, the future of cancer care lies not only in the laboratory but also in our daily lives—through the choices we make, the technologies we adopt, and our commitment to staying informed and proactive.
Stay informed. Stay proactive. Early detection saves lives.
