Colon Cancer Affects More Young Malaysians
Colon cancer is increasingly affecting younger Malaysians. Experts warned that the disease is becoming more common among people under 40. In Malaysia, about 11 per cent of colon cancer cases now involve people below the age of 40. Doctors often diagnose these patients only after the disease has reached an advanced stage.
Professor Dr. M. Murallitharan, president of the National Cancer Society Malaysia, said colon cancer was previously more common among older adults. However, recent data shows a growing number of younger and middle-aged people are now affected.
According to the National Cancer Institute, colon cancer has become the second most common cancer in Malaysia. The number of cases increased by 53.9 per cent, rising from 15,515 cases between 2012 and 2016 to 23,871 cases between 2017 and 2021.
Cases Increase Across Age Groups
The increase was recorded among both men and women. Cases among men rose by about 56.4 per cent, while cases among women increased by around 50.6 per cent.
Dr. Murallitharan said that among the 23,871 cases reported in the latest Cancer Registry Report, about 3,653 cases involved people below 50 years old. This accounted for 15.3 per cent of all recorded cases. People aged 45 to 49 recorded the highest number of cases.
He said the rise among younger adults has become a growing concern, as colon cancer is no longer seen as a disease that only affects elderly people. A local study found that 11 per cent of colon cancer cases involved people under 40, and doctors diagnosed many of them only at stage three or four.
Prevention and Early Screening
Experts said several factors may increase the risk of colon cancer. These include age, genetics, family history, poor diet, obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
Dr. Murallitharan encouraged people to adopt healthier habits. He advised eating more fiber-rich foods, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.
However, awareness about screening remains low. A local study found that only 51.4 per cent of respondents were willing to undergo screening. It also found that 59 per cent believed screening was unnecessary because they had no symptoms. People aged between 40 and 75 are advised to take an annual immunochemical fecal occult blood test. Doctors recommend that people with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors undergo regular colonoscopy checks.
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