Cancer Incidence and Cancer Control in Thailand: The incidence of cancer in Thailand is on the rise, with more than 180,000 new cases identified in 2022. Projections suggest a 50% surge in cancer cases by 2045. Unfortunately, 40% of these cases are discovered at an advanced stage, resulting in adverse outcomes and elevated mortality rates. Education about regular check-ups and Cancer Screening in Thailand, will help save lives!
Cancer is a condition when certain body cells start growing uncontrollably. Not only that, they may grow fast and The cancer can spread to other body parts, such as in cases of cholangiocarcinoma. (a phenomenon called metastasis).
Since these faulty/atypical cells grow abnormally fast and spread to other body parts, they not only cause the failure of organs primarily affected by cancer but also other organs.
This uncontrolled growth in specific cell types occurs due to mutations. These mutations might happen due to environmental factors, infections, toxins, and other factors identified by the Agency for Research on Cancer. The immune system controls most such mutations, but sometimes, the immune system fails to control these mutations, resulting in abnormal cell growth and cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives
As one can guess, cancer is more readily treated when diagnosed early. So, suppose a doctor is able to identify early enough the growth of cancer cells in a specific organ. In that case, they can remove those abnormal/malignant cells surgically and kill them using radiation or chemotherapy. However, once the cancer has spread to various parts, away from its origins, it is difficult to control.
Early cancer diagnosis remains a challenge since it produces few symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms occur only in the later stages when the tumor is large enough to start causing changes in the function of affected organs or neighboring organs. Of course, methods of early cancer diagnosis exist.
Cancer Incidence and Cancer Control in Thailand
Most cancers are highly curable in their early stages. Hence, it is vital to understand your cancer risk. It is crucial to know what kinds of cancers are more common in Thailand so that one understands where to look for cancer.
Since every nation has its unique environment and lifestyle, cancer risks of various organs vary among countries.
Figure 1 WHO Cancer Burden Report Thailand 2020
By looking at the image above, we can understand a few things about the significance of the cancer threat. Cancer causes more than 114,000 deaths (numbers are rising annually) in Thailand each year. This is more than one-third of all deaths due to non-infectious diseases.
The above picture also tells us what cancer types are most common in the nation. In Thailand, lung cancer is the biggest threat, and 14.1% of all cases of cancer are of lung cancer. An almost equally big threat is liver cancer. The third most common cancer in men is colorectal cancer. Whereas in women, breast cancer is the biggest threat.
But, it is not just about incidence. Some cancers are more difficult to treat than others, and thus, it is important to have an early diagnosis. From the image above, one can see that almost 40% of all deaths occur due to liver and lung cancers.
Figure 2 Global Cancer Observatory – A WHO Agency on Cancer Research – Report on Thailand 2024
Factors Influencing Cancer Incidence
Before further discussing this topic, it is essential to understand that environmental factors and lifestyle choices play a significant role in cancer risk. This means that a significant number of cancers can be prevented.
WHO estimates that 30-50% of all cancer cases are preventable. Yes, every second cancer case is preventable, according to the World Health Organization.
Just take an example: in the case of Thailand, lung cancer is the major issue since tobacco smoking is still a considerable problem in the nation, with about 19% of the population smoking. These rates are as high as 35.5% for males. Hence, it is no surprise that among males, lung cancer is the most common cancer type. Since far fewer females smoke in Thailand, they are also less likely to develop lung cancer.
To compare, just take the example of India, where smoking rates are much lower than in Thailand, but tobacco chewing is widespread. So, in India, lip and oral cavity cancer is the most common type. Tobacco is cancerous in any form, though it is more cancerous when smoked, as emphasized by the World Health Organization.
Figure 3 Factors Increasing Cancer Risk in Thailand
The next, and almost equally common, cancer type is liver cancer. The two most common causes of liver cancer in the nation are excessive alcohol intake and viral infections (viral hepatitis).
Viral factors also contribute to other cancer types. Thus, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection significantly increases the risk of cervix cancer in females.
Reason For Cancer Development
Of course, there are a few other reasons for cancer development, like environmental toxins, certain food choices, exposure to insecticides and pesticides, obesity, and so on. This explains why certain cancer types are more common in specific regions. For example, insecticide exposure is generally higher in rural areas, whereas obesity is a more significant problem in urban regions.
Non-modifiable cancer risk factors include aging and genetics. However, it is worth understanding that even if one has a family history of cancer, this does not mean that someone would essentially develop cancer. Similarly, it is possible to age gracefully with the right lifestyle choices.
Challenges in Cancer Control in Thailand
Despite continuous improvements in healthcare, the burden of cancer is increasing in the nation. Thus, studies suggest that in the coming 20 years, Cancer Incidence may increase by as much as 50%. There are multiple reasons for such an increase. Understanding the cause of an increase in cancer rates is important to reduce its incidence.
One of the major challenges in cancer control is late diagnosis. Many cancer cases in Thailand are detected at advanced stages, significantly reducing the chances of successful treatment. Just take the example of breast cancer, which is pretty common in Thailand. However, it is more likely to be diagnosed early than liver or colorectal cancer in men and women. This is due to different reasons, from poor awareness to insufficient focus on screening for other cancer types.
Late Diagnosis Has Lower Recovery Chances
When cancer is diagnosed late, the chances of recovery are much lower. So, increasing awareness and regular cancer screening are the keys to reducing its risk.
Here are the American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer and recommendations by other professional organizations regarding cancer screening:
| Cancer Type | Population | Screening Test | Recommended Age/Criteria | Frequency |
| Breast Cancer | Women | Mammography | Starting at age 40-44 (optional), 45-54 (recommended) | Annually for ages 45-54, every 2 years after 55 |
| Lung Cancer | Current/former smokers (ages 50-80) | Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) | Individuals with a 20 pack-year smoking history | Annually for high-risk individuals |
| Liver Cancer | Men and Women (with risk factors) | Ultrasound, Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test | Individuals with chronic hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis | Every 6 months for high-risk individuals |
| Colorectal Cancer | Men and Women | Colonoscopy, Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), or Stool DNA Test | Starting at age 45 | Colonoscopy every 10 years, FIT annually, or Stool DNA Test every 3 years |
| Cervical Cancer | Women | Pap Test and HPV Test | Pap test starting at age 21, HPV test from age 30 | Pap test every 3 years for ages 21-29, combined Pap and HPV test every 5 years after 30 |
| Prostate Cancer | Men | Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test | Starting at age 50 for average risk, 45 for high risk | Every 1-2 years based on PSA levels |
| Endometrial Cancer | Women (post-menopause) | Endometrial biopsy (optional) | Women at menopause, especially with risk factors | Discuss with a healthcare provider |
| Skin Cancer | Men and Women | Skin examination by a healthcare provider | Individuals at high risk | Periodic exams based on individual risk |
While Thailand has made progress in expanding healthcare coverage through its universal health coverage scheme, there remain disparities in the quality of care between urban and rural areas. Specialized cancer treatment centers are concentrated in major cities, leaving rural populations underserved. Additionally, the shortage of oncologists, radiotherapy equipment, and advanced treatment options in some areas makes it difficult for patients to receive timely and effective care.
Thailand’s Cancer Challenges
The cost of treatment is another challenge in cancer control. Despite Thailand’s universal health coverage, some cancer treatments, especially newer therapies such as immunotherapy, are expensive and may not be fully covered under the universal healthcare scheme.
Public health efforts to prevent cancer are also hindered by lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, and rising obesity rates. Despite tobacco control measures, smoking remains prevalent, contributing to lung and throat cancers. Furthermore, widespread use of pesticides in agriculture, pollution, and unsafe water sources pose environmental cancer risks that are difficult to control.
Strategies for Improved Cancer Control
Thailand has implemented several initiatives to improve cancer control, focusing on prevention, early detection, and treatment. The National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) is a key strategy emphasizing reducing cancer mortality through nationwide screening and public awareness campaigns.
Thailand’s universal health coverage (UHC) system ensures that most citizens have access to cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, as supported by the National Cancer Institute. The UHC policy aims to reduce the financial burden on patients.
Efforts to Reduce Lung and Liver Cancer in Thailand
Preventative efforts also play a crucial role in cancer control. Tobacco control measures Anti-smoking campaigns have been strengthened, including taxes on cigarettes, to reduce cancer rates as per the National Health guidelines. These efforts are essential, as smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer in the country. Similarly, hepatitis B vaccination programs are in place to reduce the incidence of liver cancer, which is prevalent due to hepatitis infections.
However, despite all those efforts by government bodies and NGOs, they are insufficient for early cancer detection and reducing its burden on the nation. Therefore, the private sector also plays an important role in the fight against cancer in the country. Moreover, private clinics often provide high-quality diagnostics at relatively affordable prices.
The Cost of Cancer Treatment in Thailand
There are different treatment options, and the cost often depends on the cancer stage. If the cancer is diagnosed earlier, traditional methods like surgery, radiation, and usual chemotherapy medications might be enough to manage or even cure certain cancer types, and costs might not be very high.
However, if the cancer is diagnosed late, one requires more modern drugs and immunotherapy, and the costs might be quite high. Moreover, the patients must bear the cost of such therapies.
Later Stage Detection, Comes With A Higher Cost
While Thailand’s universal health coverage (UHC) provides free or low-cost access to essential cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, more advanced and specialized therapies can be costly. Targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and the latest cancer drugs often come with high price tags, and these are not always fully covered under UHC.
Private hospitals in Thailand offer faster and more specialized cancer care but at a higher cost. Treatments in these facilities can be several times more expensive than in public hospitals. For example, targeted therapy for cancers such as breast or lung cancer can cost thousands of dollars per month, making it accessible only to those who can afford private healthcare or have comprehensive insurance.
Despite these challenges, Thailand is considered a hub for medical tourism, where international patients seek affordable yet high-quality cancer treatments. The cost of cancer care in Thailand is generally lower than in Western countries.
Conclusion
Cancer rates are increasing in Thailand. However, people need to understand that half of all cancer cases are completely preventable through specific lifestyle choices. Even if one is unable to prevent cancer, one can still expect a long and relatively healthier life if the condition is diagnosed early. So, the two keys to a fight against cancer are lifestyle changes and regular screening.
WellMed Bangkok Clinic: Your Partner in Early Detection and Cancer Prevention
At WellMed Bangkok Clinic, we understand the critical importance of early detection in effectively managing and treating cancer. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive cancer screening services that help identify cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.
We recognize that early diagnosis saves lives and significantly improves treatment outcomes, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Guidance and Referrals to Expert Oncologists
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, but you’re not alone. WellMed Bangkok Clinic acts as a bridge to specialized care, offering guidance and referrals to renowned oncologists across Bangkok.
Whether you need a consultation for a suspicious finding or require ongoing cancer treatment, we facilitate your care coordination with expert oncologists who specialize in various types of cancer. Our network includes some of the top cancer care providers in the region, ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.
Commitment to Your Health
WellMed Bangkok Clinic is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of our community through preventative care and education. We encourage regular screenings and provide personalized advice on lifestyle adjustments that can help reduce your cancer risk. Our team is here to support you in making informed health decisions and navigating the complexities of cancer care.
For more information on our cancer screening services and how we can help you connect with expert oncologists in Bangkok, visit us at WellMed Bangkok Clinic or contact our customer service team. Together, we can take proactive steps towards a healthier future.
FAQs On Cancer in Thailand
Q: What is the current trend in cancer incidence in Thailand?
A: The trend in incidence of cancer in Thailand has been increasing, with particular attention to breast and colorectal cancer incidence, as well as lung cancer incidence in various regions such as Khon Kaen and Southern Thailand.
Q: What role does the National Cancer Institute of Thailand play in cancer control?
A: The National Cancer Institute of Thailand collaborates with the Ministry of Public Health and international agencies for research to implement effective cancer control measures, including cancer registration and monitoring through population-based cancer registries.
Q: How does cervical cancer screening impact cancer incidence rates?
A: Cervical cancer screening has been shown to significantly reduce cervical cancer incidence rates in Thai women by enabling early detection and treatment of pre-cancerous conditions.
Q: What are the most common types of cancer among women in Thailand?
A: The most common types of cancer among women in Thailand include breast cancer and cervical cancer, with significant efforts being made to improve screening and treatment options.
Q: How many new cancer cases were reported in Thailand in 2022?
A: In 2022, there were numerous new cancer cases reported across Thailand, with a focus on tracking these cases through established cancer registries to better understand cancer incidence and control efforts.
Q: What is the significance of cancer registries in Thailand?
A: Cancer registries in Thailand, such as those in Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai, are crucial for collecting data on cancer incidence, which helps in understanding trends in cancer among the population and informs public health strategies.
Q: What types of cancer are prevalent in Southern Thailand?
A: In Southern Thailand, colorectal and lung cancer are notably prevalent, contributing to the overall cancer burden in the region.
Q: How does liver fluke infection relate to cancer incidence in Thailand?
A: Liver fluke infection is a significant risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma, a type of bile duct cancer, which has a high incidence rate in certain areas of Thailand, particularly in regions with a history of liver fluke prevalence.
Q: What initiatives are in place for cancer patients in Thailand?
A: Initiatives for cancer patients in Thailand include support from the National Health Security Office, which aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including treatment and follow-up care for cancer patients across the country.
