Cancer online resource hub launched today
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Cancer is the top killer in Hong Kong. In 2018, cancer claimed over 14 000 lives, accounting for about one-third of the total deaths of the local population. In view of the overall rising trend in the incidence of cancers and having regard to the World Health Organization's recommendations, international practices and local situations, the Cancer Coordinating Committee (the Committee) chaired by the Secretary for Food and Health, consolidated and enhanced a comprehensive strategy on cancer prevention and control. In July 2019, the Government promulgated the first Hong Kong Cancer Strategy (Cancer Strategy) in Hong Kong. It aims at reducing the cancer burden of the local population and improving the quality of life and survivorship of cancer patients through setting work priorities and directions.
A Government spokesman said,"The setting up of a dedicated online resource hub has achieved one of the expected outcome of the Cancer Strategy. It aims to enhance health communications and to serve as a centralised directory to inform the public of cancer-related resources. Coping with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer could be a stressful experience. With a view to alleviating their worries and anxieties, patients and carers will be informed of, through an online resource hub, what to do when one is diagnosed with cancer, what resources/materials are available and what support groups can offer help, etc."
The directions laid down in the Cancer Strategy include reducing risk factors leading to cancer; providing evidence-based screening; seeking early detection and diagnosis; offering timely and effective treatment; strengthening support to cancer survivors; providing palliative and end-of-life care; investing in technology; enhancing the collaboration among relevant bureaux, government departments, the Hospital Authority, community organisations and civil society; as well as enhancing surveillance and research capabilities. The goal is to better prevent and control various cancers through these directions.
For access to the Cancer Strategy and other health information relating to cancer, please visit the Cancer Online Resource Hub at www.cancer.gov.hk/en/index.html.
The Committee was established in 2001 comprising cancer experts and doctors from the public and private sectors, academics and public health professionals, to advise the formulation of strategies on cancer prevention and control, and steer the direction of work covering cancer prevention, screening, treatment, surveillance and research.
Ends/Friday, July 31, 2020
Issued at HKT 21:32
Issued at HKT 21:32
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