SANDAKAN: Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in Malaysia, ranking first among men and second among women, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 44 for men and 1 in 62 for women.
According to the Malaysia Cancer Registry Report 2017–2021, about 75% of colorectal cancer cases nationwide are diagnosed at advanced stages (Stage 3 and Stage 4), severely impacting both patients’ quality of life and their survival rates.
To counter this trend, HDOK is launching a colorectal cancer awareness campaign specifically targeting the Sandakan zone this year.
As part of the kick-off activities, Head of the Surgical Department Dr Lai Chung Ket appeared on Sandakan FM on 18 March 2025 to share insights on colorectal cancer with listeners. Dr Lai also highlights that many patients present at the hospital with late-stage disease and that screening uptake remains low.
The hospital also hosted an awareness exhibition, culminating in an official launch ceremony on 21st March 2025.
The Director of Duchess of Kent Hospital (HDOK), Dr. Mohd Fahmie bin Othman, who officiated the event, emphasised that HDOK has been championing colorectal cancer awareness since 2016.
Although campaign activities were temporarily suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, HDOK has now adopted outreach strategies for the rural areas such as Beluran, Kinabatangan, Telupid, and Tongod.
The event introduced an innovative approach to care: the “Fast Track Colonoscopy Referral” initiative.
Under this new approach, doctors in district health clinics will assess patients for colorectal cancer risk—based on symptoms, faecal occult blood test results, and screening scores—and refer high-risk individuals directly to the HDOK Endoscopy Unit for colonoscopy.
This streamlined process aims to reduce both travel costs (which can cost RM300–RM400 for those in remote areas ) and cut waiting time (usually two to four weeks) in navigating multiple referral steps.
The initiative has garnered strong support from hospital directors and public health officers across the Sandakan cluster—encompassing Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Beluran, Telupid, and Tongod—who share the common goal of improving early detection and outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.
