From Dialogue to Action: Enhancing Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Strategies in ASEAN and East Asia
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Colorectal cancer incidence is rising across ASEAN, yet screening uptake remains low due to financial, behavioural, and health system barriers. Evidence from Japan, the Taiwan economy, Thailand, and Viet Nam highlights the benefits of early detection, with organised screening programmes helping to identify cancer at earlier stages and reduce mortality. Although the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) offers a cost-effective entry point for screening, low participation rates and poor adherence to follow-up colonoscopy remain significant challenges. These experiences underscore the importance of sustained investment, community engagement, and effective referral systems. Addressing gaps in public awareness, workforce capacity, and health infrastructure, particularly in lower-resource settings such as Viet Nam, is essential. A phased, evidence-based approach, supported by regional collaboration and targeted policy measures, can help expand access to effective colorectal cancer screening and improve health outcomes across ASEAN.
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Full webinar: https://youtu.be/e 0r CAAY94MI?si=9Nyb Jm VSKEgoc 3QK
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