13 February 2020 – Cancer affects all walks of life no matter their age, gender or ethnic and represents a tremendous burden on patients, families and societies. It is one of the leading causes of death in the world.
1 in 5 deaths in Brunei are caused by cancer as per Ministry of Health’s latest statistics. In 2017, Brunei have already recorded 385 deaths from cancer while 625 new diagnoses were made. Moreover, women have a slightly higher risk of developing cancer over their lifetime than men. The three most common cancer among women in Brunei are breast, bowel and cervical cancer.
Dr Chitra Karat, Head of Department and Consultant of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department and Reproductive Medicine Unit of JPMC stated, “Routine screening is important for all women, but even more so for those at higher than average risk. It is also necessary for all individuals to consult their doctor about the risk to different kinds of cancers and varied cancer screening tests. By getting the right health services, screenings and treatments, you are taking steps that may help your chances for living a longer, healthier life”.
Another condition that may contribute and increases the risk of some types of cancer is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). The National Institute of Health study in United States by Dr. Dumesic, a noted Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) researcher, women with PCOS have a 2.7 times higher risk of endometrial cancer. It is the most common type of gynecologic cancer and the fourth most common cancer among women.
PCOS is a disorder of chronically abnormal ovarian function and hyperandrogenism. Women with PCOS produce higher than normal amounts of male hormones. This hormone imbalance causes them irregular menstrual periods and makes it harder for them to conceive. When no periods appear, women’s uterine lining thickens, and the cells start to change in pre-cancerous or cancerous ways. PCOS is a manageable disorder when receive proper diagnosis.
Dr Chitra added, “There are many ways you can decrease or eliminate PCOS symptoms and feel better. Regular exercising, intake of a balanced and healthy diet, and good lifestyle choices can ensure great overall health of an individual and decrease the awareness developing cancer, cancerous tumors, and other serious illness”.
In line with World Cancer Day and The International Women’s Day, JPMC will be offering two screening packages Female Cancer Screening Package worth BND458.00 available at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Screening Package worth BND348.00 available at the Reproductive Medicine Unit. Both packages will commence from 14th February 2020 until 31st July 2020 and redeemable up to 31st August 2020. For more information, please call JPMC at 261 1433. Visit and follow JPMC social media Instagram @jpmcbrunei for more updates.
