To be given the news you have Cancer is one thing, but then because you don’t have medical Insurance, you get the bill to save your life and the costs for Cancer care in Thailand is , well, enough to make you feel ill to see what it costs skip to the end….
What is Colon Cancer?
When cells in the colon’s (large intestine’s) lining grow out of control, colon cancer develops. Although it should be, colon cancer is not as frequently discussed as some other malignancies. With almost 150,000 people being diagnosed each year, it is the third most prevalent cancer in the country.
Younger persons under the age of 50 are being diagnosed with an increasing proportion of these cancers. The term colorectal cancer, which includes malignancies of the colon and rectum, is frequently used to designate colon cancer.
Yet another important information concerning colon cancer is that it is preventable. There are things you can take to prevent 75% of cases.
Use these eight suggestions as a road map to reduce your risk. Begin with one or two, then increase from there.
1. Obtain a screening
The only surefire strategy to avoid developing colon cancer is to undergo routine screening exams. Early detection of cancer makes it easier to treat. By identifying abnormal growths called polyps that can develop into cancer, it can also aid in disease prevention. There are several reliable colon cancer screening procedures. Some are simple to complete but should be done more frequently. Others require less frequent completion but are more involved. Your medical history and personal preferences will determine the test you receive. You could get advice from a doctor.
The average person starts getting tested at age 45. People who have a family history of the disease or other risk factors may start testing earlier and undergo more frequent testing. Genetic testing may provide crucial details about your risk if colon cancer runs in your family. Ask your doctor if genetic testing would be appropriate for you.
Typical advised screening methods
A further colonoscopy is typically required if a test reveals anything abnormal.
Colonoscopy
What: A test that examines the whole length of the colon’s interior using a small, flexible camera. You’ll need a transport home because you’ll be under anesthesia for the exam. Colon polyps and other unexplained growths can be surgically removed if discovered during the examination.
How frequently: every ten years
OR
Stool tests at home
These exams are brief and simple. You gather a stool sample at home, which is then sent to a lab for analysis.
FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) or FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
What: Check for rectal bleeding, which could indicate malignancy.
How frequently: per year
OR
Fecal DNA
What: A test that looks for undetectable blood as well as DNA alterations from polyp or cancer cells.
When: every three years
Sigmoidoscopy
Barium enema and virtual colonoscopy are both good screening methods. Consult a doctor to discuss your alternatives.
2. Keep an Ideal Weight
Nothing else, excluding smoking, increases the risk of cancer in general more than being overweight. Weight increase and obesity have been linked to at least 13 different diseases, including colon cancer. If you’ve gained weight, make an effort to cease doing so because doing so offers health advantages on its own. Then, for an even greater health benefit, gradually try to reduce some weight.
3. Quit smoking
Not smoking is the single best thing you can do for your health, as it rarely needs to be stated anymore. Colon cancer is one of the 15 cancers that smoking causes. Additionally, it raises the risk of other significant illnesses like lung issues, heart disease, and stroke. If you smoke, quitting offers significant advantages that appear soon after your final cigarette. Your chances of success can be doubled by speaking with a doctor.
4. Engage in physical activity
Regular exercise is difficult to surpass. It gives you a fantastic mental boost and reduces your risk of developing several serious illnesses, such as colon cancer. Any movement is preferable to none. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day. Pick activities you find enjoyable, such as gardening, brisk walking, cycling, or dancing.
5. Avoid alcohol altogether if possible.
Alcohol consumption, even in little amounts, can increase the risk of breast and colorectal cancer. Additionally, given all of the alcohol’s risks, refraining from drinking is ultimately the healthiest option.
6. Avoid red meat, particularly processed meat.
Consuming excessive amounts of red meat, such as pork, beef, and steak, increases the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, danger is increased by processed meats like bacon, sausage, and bologna. Try to limit your weekly intake to three servings. Less is better still.
7. Consume Enough Vitamin D and Calcium
There is solid proof that having adequate vitamin D and calcium can help prevent colon cancer. Try to consume between 1000 and 1200 mg of calcium and roughly 1000 IU of vitamin D daily.
Low-fat dairy, fortified plant-based milks, nuts, legumes, and leafy greens are all excellent sources of calcium. Eggs, fatty seafood (like tuna), and fortified dairy products are excellent sources of vitamin D. While they can assist fill in any gaps, supplements shouldn’t be used in place of actual food or a balanced diet.
8. Consume more fiber and entire grains
Consuming a diet high in fiber and whole grains can reduce the chance of developing colon cancer. However, neither is generally enough for most people. Eating three or more servings of whole grains daily is a general objective. Depending on your age and sex, you should aim for 22 to 34 grams of fiber each day. Put an emphasis on eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain products like 100% whole-wheat bread, cereals, and pasta.
Screening Costs
Medical tourists that are interested in getting a health check or have concerns about developing cancer are encouraged to undergo a health check at the hospital. The cost of the current health check-up package in 2020 ranges from THB ฿5,000 – 30,000.
A number of tests are included, such as:
- PSA for prostate cancer
- CEA for gastrointestinal cancer
- AFP for liver cancer
- Digital mammogram with ultrasound
- And much more
Cancer Care Costs
When it comes to cancer treatment, prices vary dependent on the treatment choice such as, surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and radiotherapy. Types of cancer is also a key factor in price variations. However, it is remarked that costs in public hospitals are usually 30-40% lower than that in the private ones.
According to King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, one of the national leading cancer centers, approximate cost of radiation therapy in common cancers are listed below:
- Breast cancer: 69,300 – 84,500 baht
- Cervical Cancer: 145,000 baht
- Lung cancer: 141,100 – 197,600 baht
- Prostate cancer: 182,400 baht
- Colon cancer: 103,000 baht
The last thing you want to hear when you are given the bombshell you have Cancer is what it is going to cost you in you live in Thailand as an expatriate. Get yourself covered today it is less than you think seriously!!
