By Watipaso Mzungu
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (WOCACA) has today joined the global community in commemorating the Blue Hat Bow Tie for Colorectal Cancer Awareness campaign from 27–29 March, with a call for increased awareness and early screening for colorectal cancer in Malawi.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about colorectal cancer and encourage early screening, prevention, and support for people affected by the disease.
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon or bowel cancer, is a disease that affects the colon or rectum, which are important parts of the large intestine responsible for processing food and removing waste from the body.
When cancer develops in this area, it can disrupt normal digestion and become life-threatening if it is not detected early.
Globally, nearly two million people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer every year, making it one of the most common cancers and a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.
However, health experts emphasize that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early.
In Malawi, colorectal cancer is increasingly becoming a serious public health concern, according to WOCACA Executive Director, Maud Mwakasungula.
Experts warn that many cases in the country are detected late, when the disease has already advanced, making treatment more difficult and costly.
Studies also indicate that colorectal cancer has already claimed the lives of many Malawians.
Mwakasungula cited limited awareness, lack of routine screening programmes, and insufficient specialized health services as major challenges in the fight against the disease in the country.
“WOCACA believes that public education and early detection are critical in addressing this growing health challenge. Colorectal cancer often begins as small growths called polyps in the colon or rectum.
“These polyps are usually non-cancerous at first, but over time they can develop into cancer. When detected early through screening, these polyps can be removed before they become cancerous, significantly reducing the risk of death,” said Mwakasungula.
According to her, several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer.
They include having a family history of colon cancer, eating diets high in processed or fatty foods and low in fruits and vegetables, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being overweight. Certain bowel diseases and inherited conditions can also increase the risk.
“WOCACA is also encouraging the public to be aware of possible warning signs of colorectal cancer. These may include persistent changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or constant bloating.
“Anyone experiencing these symptoms is encouraged to seek medical advice as soon as possible,” she explained.
Mwakasungula stressed that screening is one of the most effective ways to detect colorectal cancer early.
On the other hand, health experts recommend that people begin regular screening around the age of 45 to 50, although those with higher risk factors may need to start earlier.
One of the most effective screening methods is a colonoscopy, which allows doctors to examine the colon and remove polyps during the procedure.
“As Malawi continues to face a rising burden of non-communicable diseases, WOCACA is calling on government institutions, health professionals, civil society organizations, and development partners to invest more in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment services.
The organization further calls on communities across Malawi to join the Blue Hat Bow Tie campaign by sharing information, supporting people affected by colorectal cancer, and encouraging friends and family members to seek screening. By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and encouraging early screening, we can save many lives from colorectal cancer,” Mwakasungula said.