Frequently Asked Questions
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Cancer is the result of cells that grow uncontrollably and do not die. Normal cells in the body follow an orderly path of growth, division, and death. Cancer cells do not experience programmatic death and instead continue to grow and divide. This leads to a mass of abnormal cells that grow out of control.
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Cancer that is closely linked to certain behaviours are the easiest to prevent. For example, choosing not to smoke tobacco or drink alcohol significantly lowers the risk of several types of cancer – most notably lung, throat, mouth and liver cancer. Even if you are a current tobacco user, quitting can greatly reduce your chances of getting cancer. Eat more plant-based foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables and aim for at least 5 and preferably 7 servings a day.
Some methods of cancer prevention are based on systemic screening in order to detect small irregularities or tumours as early as possible even if there are no clear symptoms present. Breast self-examination, mammograms, testicular self-examination, colonoscopy and pap smear are common screening methods for various cancers.
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Cancer occurs as a result of out-of-control cell growth and; therefore can’t be spread to other people.
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At Sunway Cancer Centre, the more common cancer cases are breast, colorectal and lung cancer.
With early detection programme such as mammography and colonoscopy, breast and colorectal cancer can be prevented or treated at the early stage when cure is possible.
For tumours at an advanced stage, a combined approach of multidisciplinary management including surgeons, radiotherapists and medical oncologists will ensure a better outcome.
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Cancer is not just one disease, but a large disease consisting of many diseases. Treatments generally vary according to the type and stage of cancer. However, for gastro intestinal, breast or lung cancer patients, treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy and other systemic anti-cancer treatments.
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Medical oncologists provide the initial diagnosis of cancer and involves the assessment and treatment of cancer using chemotherapy, a treatment which uses drugs to destroy cancer cells by stopping the cancer cells’ ability to grow and divide.
Clinical oncologists focus primarily on the techniques of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in managing cancer. Clinical oncologists work closely with a multidisciplinary team to determine the type of treatment by considering a range of factors including the cancer type, the stage of the cancer, and the tumour site. They then assess the benefits and conditions of different treatments before making an informed decision.
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A medical oncologist is a consultant physician who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. Medical oncologists are mainly involved in chemotherapy (the use of anti-cancer medication to destroy cancer cells) and targeted biological treatments as well as in supportive care.
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Prior to seeing an oncologist, read up about your condition and understand why your GP has advised you to see an oncologist. Understanding the disease is just as important as treating it.
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For screenings or procedures of any kind, a referral from a doctor is required. You can make an appointment with our specialists to first diagnose any issues or troubles you might be facing. Once diagnosed, the specialist will advise you on the required or necessary screening for your condition.
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Cancer is often a confusing and frightening diagnosis. Many people refer to a few doctors or medical professionals before deciding. Asking for a second opinion is common practice. It may help you feel more comfortable with the health care decisions you make. A second opinion also helps you understand the disease better and options available for treatment.
Answer :
- Hospis Malaysia
A charitable organisation that offers professional palliative care to patients in the Klang Valley who are suffering from life-limiting illnesses. - National Cancer Society of Malaysia
Dedicated to preventing cancer, and improving the quality of lives of those living with cancer through patient care and education. - Empowered Malaysia
A non-profit organisation committed to saving lives, preventing cancer and eliminating suffering amongst the poor. - Cancerlink Foundation
This foundation provides extensive support care programmes and services to cancer patients, and their families and friends.
