Services / Oncology

Oncology

Restore quality of life with the right support

A cancer diagnosis can be devastating to an individual and their loved ones. Our oncology unit seeks to diagnose, treat and prevent the spread of cancers, in order to give you the quality of life you deserve.

When detected and acted upon early, a lot can be done to control the spread of cancers with possibilities of complete remission or healing. The right kind of care from the right team of people makes all the difference.

Holistic approach for wholesome results

Within Avisena Specialist Hospital, we also have a team that’s focused on helping colorectal cancer patients with a full range of therapy options such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy for all stages.

We work collaboratively with other units including surgery, radiology and even dieticians to ensure that you get the most complete care possible. In our experience, a holistic approach is necessary to guide you through changes that may include specific treatment options, management of possible side effects and lifestyle adjustments.

Our specialists can help with:

Breast and endocrine cancers
Colorectal cancers
Medical oncology
Lung cancer
Gastrointestinal cancers

Bladder and kidney cancers
Clinical trials
Symptom management
Non-surgical management of cancers

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a predominant cancer in both men and women worldwide, and the second most common cancer in Malaysia.

As a treatable form of cancer, the earlier it is detected, the more likely it can be cured.

Who’s at risk? Those above the age of 45 and with:

family history of cancer of colon or rectum
history of colon polyps and inflammatory bowel disease
history of cancer of ovary, endometrium or breast
health issues such as obesity and with unhealthy dietary habits (excessive consumption of fatty foods and red meat)
unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking, consuming alcohol and lack of exercise

Early symptoms

Change in bowel habits, including diarrhoea or constipation or a change in consistency of stool
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
Weakness or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss

It is important to seek early medical attention as colon polyps can become cancerous in just 10 years.

Get screening done

It is best to get your colon screened upon reaching the age of 45. Your options include:

Faecal occult blood test (FOBT): A test to check stool for blood that can be seen only with a microscope
Colonoscopy: Widely regarded as the gold standard in colorectal cancer screening, this entails looking inside the rectum and entire colon for polyps, abnormalities or cancer