NCD Watch

Move More and Sit Less to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

7 March 2023 (Tue)

Colorectal cancer (including colon cancer and rectal cancer) is one of the most common cancers with almost 1.93 million newly diagnosed cases across the globe in 2020. A global review has appraised that 17–18% of colon cancers worldwide are attributed to insufficient physical activity. Conversely, being physically active decreases the risk of colon cancer. Compared with low levels of physical activity, high levels of physical activity were associated with 21–27% reduction in colon cancer risk. Risk reductions in colon cancer were also observed for various physical activity domains, including transport-, work- and recreation-related physical activities.

For adults aged 18 and above, including those living with chronic conditions or disability, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends them to do at least 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent amount and intensity of physical activity throughout the week. They should also limit the time spent being sedentary.

According to the Population Health Survey 2020–22 conducted by the Department of Health (DH), 24.8% (22.8% for males; 26.5% for females) of local adults aged 18 or above had insufficient physical activity (i.e. not meeting the WHO recommended levels of aerobic physical activity). Among persons aged 15 or above, 14.9% of them spent 10 hours or longer on average per day sitting or reclining (apart from sleeping).

Regular physical activity contributes to the prevention of non-communicable diseases, including colorectal cancer. Members of the public are urged to make physical activity a “must do” habit. To meet the daily or weekly goal, individuals can go for a variety of physical activities and do aerobic exercises in shorter bouts (such as 10, 15 or 20 minutes) a few times a day. Of note, colorectal cancer is a highly preventable disease. Adhering to a healthy lifestyle can substantially reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

DH will continue organising health promotional campaigns using a variety of strategies to raise public awareness about the benefits of physical activity, and working closely with relevant stakeholders as well as community partners to integrate physical activity into daily living.

To reduce the burden arising from colorectal cancer, the Hong Kong SAR Government launched the Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme (“Programme”) to subsidise asymptomatic average-risk Hong Kong residents aged between 50 and 75 to undergo screening tests in the private sector for prevention of colorectal cancer. Eligible persons are urged to join the Programme and have well-organised screenings. For more health advice for prevention of colorectal cancer or information about the Programme, please visit https://www.colonscreen.gov.hk or call 3565 6288 during office hours.

Source: NCD Watch March 2023