Cancer

Friday, March 7, 2008

Cancer Prevention: Lessons From Taiwan's Early Detection Program

Taiwan is one of the leading centers for cancer treatment in Asia. Although many Taiwanese are still dying of cancer, many are also surviving because of their screening measures and early detection program, leading to the prompt treatment of many cancer patients.Health authorities from other countries can pick some lessons from Taiwan's cancer intervention and prevention strategies:

a. Taiwan's hepatitis B vaccination program started in july 1984, and has resulted in a significant decrease in childhood liver cancer.

b. Ordinance was enacted on the control of Tobacco Hazards in 1997. A decrease in the prevalence of cigarette smoking has been observed. The gov't. has been intensifying it's anti-smoking campaign using all possible media and forums.

c. Free mass screening of uterine, cervical and colorectal cancer has been implemented as part of Taiwan's national health insurance program since 1995. They also screen families with strong histories for liver, throat and breast cancer.

d. Taiwanece are now thoroughly studying their diet, which has been implicated in certain types of cancer such as those of the stomack, colon and rectum.

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