14 Thais die of breast cancer each day
BREAST cancer is still the number one killer of Thai women with about 14 deaths a day, an expert at Chulabhorn Hospital in Bangkok has said.
Thai women should regularly check their breasts for irregular lumps and not be shy about consulting their doctor, the specialist said.
The hospital organised a campaign last Wednesday for the early detection of cancer among Thai women to ensure patients make a complete recovery. The hospital officially opened its service to treat breast cancer and provide patients with cosmetic surgery.
Dr Ongkarn Raungratanaamporn, deputy director for medical services, cited a 2012 statistic that 54,000 new breast cancer patients were found in Thailand every year, saying the fatality rate was approximately 14 per day.
Ongkarn said the cause of breast cancer remains unknown and it is difficult to prevent. But it can be cured and the prognosis is good if the disease is detected and treated early. Detection can be done via mammogram test, a physician’s breast examination or a self-examination.
The hospital has a specialised cancer centre established by HRH Princess Chulabhorn Valayalaksana, who was concerned over the dangers of cancer, especially breast cancer among Thai women. Ongkarn said the hospital organised the campaign in October because it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Oncologist Dr Sudarat Chaipianchroenkit said the global fatality rate from breast cancer was about 6.5 million a year and one breast cancer death occurs every second. Up to 98 per cent of patients had a breast tumour detected in the first five years.
She urged women to do a self-examination and consult a doctor if any abnormal lump is found so it can be tested and treated quickly. Cancer treatment could be surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, she said. Cosmetic surgery, using silicone filling, can be performed on those who have had their breasts removed.
