Diagnoses of colorectal cancer climb, especially in big cities

There are 376,000 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer in China every year, 191,000 of whom are killed by the disease annually. 

The incidence of colorectal cancer has been climbing in big cities, medical experts told a health lecture promoting cancer prevention and control through the theory of traditional Chinese medicine in Shanghai.

Dr Li Qi, director of the oncology department at Shuguang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital said over 80 percent of colorectal cancer develops from adenoma. Unhealthy diet, a lack of exercise and obesity are all risk factors for colorectal cancer.

Doctors said over 60 percent of cancers can be prevented and 20 to 30 percent can be cured if discovered in the early stage.

“Early and regular screening is important for colorectal cancer prevention and control, and a healthy diet is very important," Li said. “Cereal, vegetables, fruit and beans should cover two thirds of food on the table every day. The daily intake of red meat should be no more than a person’s own palm. Restriction of alcohol is also important, as alcohol has a relationship with tumors.”

TCM experts said traditional Chinese medicine is a health care theory, but they remind the public not to see it as a last resort.

“TCM doesn’t create magic when there is no cure in Western medicine,” said Dr Xu Ling from the oncology department of Yueyang Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital. “TCM is a theory that teaches people to live in a natural and balanced way. A regular and healthy lifestyle is key for cancer prevention and control.”