DUBAI — Oncologists participating in the Colorectal Cancer Uncovered conference here said that over 1.2 million people globally are diagnosed with colon cancer every year of which 600,000 die from the disease, which is the second most common cancer in Saudi Arabia. The conference was organized by the Swiss biotech firm Roche. With an aim to dispel the myths associated with colon cancer, while encouraging early detection of the disease through improved awareness, Roche Media Academy brought together leading experts from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and journalists from the region to Dubai. Colon cancer has been one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the Middle East with the annual incidence rate estimated to be 907 cases (Age-standardized ratio 8.9) among Saudis and 267 among non-Saudis. “Colon cancer is a silent killer, with most cases being diagnosed at a late stage with symptoms not being detected early. With the rising incidence of the disease, this is a major cause of concern as late stage detection increases the fatality rate of the disease. If detected in its early stages and treated accurately, colon cancer can be easily managed and cured. We encourage people to identify the early symptoms like a prolonged period of rectal bleeding, pain in the abdomen, irregular bowel movement or unexplained weight loss and seek diagnosis,” said Dr. Diaeddine Trad, Consultant Oncologist, Tawam Hospital, Al-Ain. “Colon cancer is common in both men and women and it is a misconception that it is a man's disease. It is also a myth that the disease cannot be prevented or it is not curable. It is one of our constant efforts to dispel the myths and educate people on the risk factors, which if taken care of, can significantly bring down the high rate of mortality associated with the disease,” said Dr. Mohanad Diab, Consultant Oncologist, NMC hospital, Abu Dhabi. The forum saw a discussion session being held on “Debunking the Myths about Colorectal Cancer” bringing together leading oncologists from the UAE to clear misconceptions on the topics of colon cancer prevention, the disease affecting women and not just men as commonly perceived and it being curable if detected at an early stage. The attendees were also introduced to the concept of healthy living and colon cancer, which was aimed at encouraging people to adopt healthy food and lifestyle habits which can reduce the risk of the cancer. “One of our primary objectives is to improve general public awareness and understanding of silent diseases like colon cancer which is affecting so many people in the region. We think the media in the region plays a key role in generating this awareness. Hence, Roche Media Academy is our proactive effort to equip journalists in the region with accurate information and understanding of how a particular disease affects the lives of patients,” said Abed Sabra, Country Manager at Roche, UAE. The event, held at Movenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel, was organized by Roche Middle East under its Empowerment Through Knowledge initiative called Roche Media Academy.
