Colorectal Cancer in Thailand: A Summary of Current Status.

This article aimed to summarize current status of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Thailand. In brief, CRC is the third most common cancer and accounts for 11% of cancer burden in Thailand. It was the only malignancy with increased incidence in both genders in Thailand. Over 10,000 new CRC cases occurred annually and about 40% were rectal cancer. Due to the lack of CRC screening and public awareness, non-metastatic cancer was accounted only for 20-30% of overall cases. The demand for general or colorectal surgeons outmatches the supply with a ratio of 1 general surgeon to 35,000 individuals. There are about 70 board-certified colorectal surgeons serving nearly 70-million population of Thailand. As a result, >25% of cancer patients needed to wait more than a month prior to surgery. Regarding training for colorectal surgery, there are 3 major institutes in Bangkok providing a 2-year fellowship program. Cadaveric workshop is an important part of training - especially in laparoscopy for CRC. Recently, population-based CRC screening program has launched using fecal immunochemical test. The Ministry of Public Health of Thailand sets more platforms for laparoscopy to support the potential detection of early CRC following the implement of nationwide CRC screening program. PMID: 32054248 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Annals of Coloproctology - Category: Gastroenterology Tags: Ann Coloproctol Source Type: research