HONG KONG – Amid persistent figures highlighting cancer as a leading cause of mortality in Hong Kong, medical experts are increasingly emphasizing dietary modifications as a potent preventative measure. Dr. Ooi Hean (黃軒), a specialist in critical care medicine, recently shared a comprehensive ten-point framework for anti-cancer diets, suggesting that adopting these habits can significantly lower the risk of developing certain malignancies, particularly a 23% reduction in colorectal cancer risk according to supporting research. This expert guidance comes as Hong Kong grapples with high incidence rates, where cancer accounted for 15,108 deaths in 2021—nearly 30% of all fatalities recorded city-wide.
The latest available data from 2021 confirms the critical public health challenge posed by cancer in the city. The three most common forms remain lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer. Lung cancer is disproportionately lethal, contributing to a 26.7% mortality rate among all new cases and ranking as the most fatal cancer overall. Colorectal (large intestine) cancer accounted for 15.3% of new diagnoses, making it the second most frequent and a primary focus for prevention strategies. Rounding out the top three is breast cancer, representing 14.5% of new cases.
Understanding Hong Kong’s Top Cancer Risks
While the overall numbers are concerning, the specific ranking highlights areas where lifestyle and dietary interventions could have the most profound effect. The top ten reported cancers of 2021 included:
- Lung Cancer (15.5% of new cases): Remains the primary concern due to its high fatality rate.
- Colorectal Cancer (15.3%): A major target for dietary modification campaigns.
- Breast Cancer (14.5%): A significant concern primarily affecting women.
- Prostate Cancer (7.9%): Prevalent among older males.
- Liver Cancer (4.6%): Carries a high mortality rate (9.6%).
- Stomach Cancer (3.4%)
- Uterine Corpus Cancer (3.2%)
- Thyroid Cancer (3.0%)
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (2.9%)
- Pancreatic Cancer (2.9%)
Significantly, the trio of lung, colorectal, and liver cancers collectively account for more than half of all cancer-related deaths in the territory, underscoring the urgent need for preventative strategies that extend beyond generalized advice like “eating more vegetables.”
Expert-Recommended Anti-Cancer Diet Strategies
Dr. Ooi’s publicized 10-point plan delves into the specifics of food types, preparation methods, and portion control necessary to build resilience against disease. This framework moves beyond broad suggestions, offering actionable steps for residents looking to mitigate their risk, particularly against gastrointestinal cancers.
The emphasis is placed not only on consuming high volumes of fruits and vegetables but ensuring a balanced intake of specific anti-inflammatory and high-fiber foods that benefit gut health. Furthermore, doctors stress the equal importance of eliminating or severely restricting foods known to elevate cancer risk.
In parallel advice, oncologists and gastroenterologists have repeatedly cautioned against several common dietary habits prevalent in modern life. Experts have identified at least six habits often associated with increased cancer risk, warning that seemingly healthy yet highly processed or sugar-laden breakfast options, excessive red and processed meat consumption, and erratic eating schedules can compromise the body’s defenses.
Public Health Implications and Next Steps
Preventative nutrition acts as a critical line of defense in a city where one in four men and one in four women face a cancer diagnosis before the age of 75. Clinical insights suggest that individuals can proactively alter their health trajectory by making informed choices about what they eat.
The scientific backing, particularly the 23% risk reduction for colorectal cancer through disciplined anti-cancer eating, provides a strong incentive for citizens to overhaul their daily menus. Food experts recommend focusing on nutrient-dense, whole foods, particularly those identified by nutritionists as possessing robust anti-cancer properties.
Residents are encouraged to consult resources detailing low-risk foods, the 12 key nutrient-rich items recommended by dieticians, and lists compiled by medical professionals highlighting items they personally avoid due to cancer concerns, effectively turning medical expertise into practical, daily food choices. Adopting these specific, evidence-based dietary habits is a crucial and immediately actionable step in improving overall public health outcomes across Hong Kong.