China’s health chief is urging people to pay more attention to cancer prevention. He emphasized that living healthier and getting regular check-ups are key to catching cancer early. Early detection can make a big difference in treatment success.
At a recent conference during the National People’s Congress, Lei Haichao, who leads the National Health Commission, pointed out that while cancer is a serious health issue, it’s much less daunting if found early. “Prevention and early screening are crucial,” he said. Many people only discover their cancer when it’s advanced, which often complicates treatment and increases costs.
Lei highlighted common bad habits that raise cancer risk, such as smoking, drinking too much, poor eating, and not exercising. He stressed that making healthier choices can help reduce the overall cancer burden.
He provided clear advice on screenings:
- People aged 50 and older who smoke or have a family history of lung cancer should get yearly low-dose CT scans.
- Those at risk for colorectal cancer should have a colonoscopy every three to five years.
- Anyone 45 and older with heavy alcohol use or gastric problems should consider regular gastroscopies.
“If someone in your family has had cancer, take it seriously,” Lei added, noting that many cancers have genetic links. This is a reminder that family health history plays an important role in understanding personal risk.
According to recent studies, more than 4 million cancer cases are reported annually in China. The rising number highlights the urgency of preventive measures and early screenings. Experts agree that with a proactive approach, many lives could be saved.
It’s clear that being vigilant about health is more important than ever. Engaging in regular health check-ups and addressing risk factors can make a significant impact. For further information, you can refer to [the World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer) for more insights on cancer prevention and treatment guidance.
