5 Year (2008-2012) Retrospective Analysis of the National Cancer Patient Registry - Colorectal Cancer Database in Kedah, Perlis, and Seberang Jaya, Malaysia
Location: Malaysia
Alumni: Brian Bush
Faculty: Edwin Michael
Assuming the validity of association between economic/human development and colorectal cancer, Malaysia is an especially important country to examine, given its recent developmental trajectory and commitment to development. Given the research demonstrating the lack of awareness among Malaysians about colorectal cancer, disease prevention and benefits of screening/early detection, it behooves both health care providers and the public at large to have accurate and up-to-date information about colorectal cancer on a longitudinal scale. The long-term goals of the research project are to assess colorectal cancer trends retrospectively on a national level. We gathered a population of colorectal cancer patients and determined specific causes of each case and symptoms and signs that can present in the disease. The results of this study suggest that males potentially are at more risk than females. The data does not provide conclusive evidence that any one ethnic group in the states of Kedah, Perlis, and Seberang Jaya are more at risk for colorectal cancer than any other. However the data suggests that age is one of the most significant risk factors associated with colorectal cancer. Ideally, the retrospective data obtained from this project may provide a sound basis for public health officials and heath care workers, as they develop new ways to publicly address and treat colorectal cancer in Malaysia.