By Chris Chatha:
Malawi’s leading cancer advocacy group, the Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (WOCACA), states that many colorectal cancer cases in the country are detected late, when the disease has advanced, making treatment more difficult and costly.
This message comes as Malawi joins the global community in commemorating the Blue Hat Bow Tie for Colorectal Cancer Awareness campaign from this Friday until March 29.
Maud Mwakasungula, WOCACA’s executive director, said in a statement that the campaign aims to raise public awareness about colorectal cancer, encourage early screening, prevention, and support for those affected.
“Colorectal cancer is increasingly becoming a serious public health concern. Studies indicate it has already claimed many Malawian lives. Limited awareness, lack of routine screening programs, and insufficient specialized health services remain major challenges,” she said.
Mwakasungula emphasized that public education and early detection are critical, as colorectal cancer often starts as small, non-cancerous growths called polyps in the colon or rectum.
“These polyps can develop into cancer over time. When detected early through screening, they can be removed before becoming cancerous, significantly reducing the risk of death,” she stated.
She urged communities across Malawi to join the Blue Hat Bow Tie campaign by sharing information, supporting those affected, and encouraging friends and family to get screened.
“By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and encouraging early screening, we can save many lives from colorectal cancer,” Mwakasungula added.
“As Malawi faces a rising burden of non-communicable diseases, WOCACA calls on government institutions, health professionals, civil society organizations, and development partners to invest more in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment services.”
She noted risk factors including family history of colon cancer, diets high in processed or fatty foods and low in fruits and vegetables, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being overweight.
“We encourage the public to be aware of warning signs like persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation), blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or constant bloating,” she said.
Health experts recommend starting regular screening around ages 45 to 50, or earlier for those with higher risk factors.
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon or bowel cancer, affects the colon or rectum—key parts of the large intestine that process food and remove waste.
Globally, nearly two million people are diagnosed annually, making it one of the most common cancers and a leading cause of cancer deaths. However, experts stress it is highly preventable and treatable when caught early.
Mwakasungula: Polyps can be removed before they become cancerous
