Health department looks to improve cancer prevention

In response to studies that predict a 60-percent increase in the number of new incidents of cancer in the next 15 years, the Department of Health is working on policies to boost cancer prevention and treatment.

"The number of new cancer cases occurring each year is estimated to jump to 100,000 from the current 60,000 in just 15 years. It's a very frightening statistic," said Lin Shio-jean (林秀娟), director general of the department's Bureau of Health Promotion.

With 100,000 new cancer cases each year, 410 of every 100,000 people will be afflicted with some form of cancer.

"The increase in the cancer incidence rate in recent years can be attributed mostly to an aging population. Also, people are living longer than they used to. The environment and eating habits are also factors," Lin said.

According to the bureau's records, the percentage of people aged over 65 in the country is estimated to increase from 7 to 14 in just 27 years. In other developed nations, this process takes 45 to 115 years.

Lin that the Cancer Prevention and Treatment Five Year Plan, slated to be implemented next January, will focus on curbing smoking and betel-nut chewing, as well as lowering the incidence of obesity. Widespread inoculation to protect against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is also a primary component of the plan.

In order to promote early detection, the plan makes available several medical examinations to high-risk groups free of charge. Medical fees for pap smears would be covered by National Health Insurance. Studies have shown a clear link between HPV and cervical cancer.

Free mammograms for women between 50 and 69 years of age will be introduced. Women with a history of breast cancer in their immediate families would also be eligible for tests every year and before the age of 50.

Those who smoke or chew betel nut will be eligible for free oral cancer exams every three years.

In addition, the department hopes to offer Hepatitis B carriers over the age of 40 a series of follow-up detection exams.

In terms of prevention, the department anticipates passing laws to allow for the control of betel-nut distribution as well as for health taxes to be collected on betel-nut purchases.