Facing The Cancer Surge
- Community
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
Why Early detection matters more than ever
By Dr. Melvin Sanicas, MD MSc MScID MBA FRSPH FRSA
Cancer is no longer just a medical condition—it is a growing global health concern. As
more people around the world are diagnosed each year, it is becoming clear that cancer is not some distant possibility. It is something many of us will face personally, through someone we love or someone in our communities.
Why Is Cancer Becoming More Common?
There are a few key reasons:
We are living longer.
Cancer is mostly a disease of aging, and as life expectancy increases, so does the chance of developing cancer. Cancers like breast, prostate, and colorectal are much more common in older adults.
Our lifestyles have changed.
Unhealthy habits like smoking, heavy drinking, poor diet, physical inactivity, and being overweight raise cancer risk. Environmental factors—such as pollution and chemical exposure—also contribute.
We are better at finding cancer.
With improved medical technology and awareness, more cancers are being detected early. This is good news, but it also makes the numbers seem higher.
Healthcare is not equal everywhere.
In many parts of the world, cancer is not found until it is already advanced. That leads to worse outcomes and higher mortality rates.
Why experts say it is not "if," but "when"
In some countries, up to 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. That is a startling number and it helps explain why many experts now believe that, for many of us, it is not a question of if we will encounter cancer, but when.
While genes play a role, most cancers are influenced by lifestyle, environment, and age. Even people with no family history can develop cancer. The uncertainty around when it might strike makes prevention and early detection more important than ever.
Which cancers have screening programs?
Thankfully, there are well-established screening programs for several cancers:
• Breast cancer: Mammograms are recommended starting around age 40–50, depending on local guidelines.
• Cervical cancer: Pap smears and HPV tests for women aged 21–65.
• Colorectal cancer: Stool-based tests, colonoscopies, or blood tests for adults over 45.
• Lung cancer: Low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals (usually heavy smokers aged 50–80).
• Prostate cancer: PSA blood tests may be offered based on personal risk (age, family history, race).
These tests are backed by medical evidence and have been shown to reduce deaths by catching cancer early—sometimes even before it starts.
Why you should follow cancer screening recommendations
Early detection saves lives
Cancers caught early are much easier to treat. For instance, early-stage breast cancer has a 90% survival rate, compared to less than 30% when it’s found late.
Screening can prevent cancer
Some tests do not just find cancer—they stop it. Colonoscopies can remove precancerous polyps, and HPV testing can lead to treatment before cervical cancer develops.
It costs less—in every way
Catching cancer early reduces the need for expensive treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, or extended hospital stays. It also reduces emotional and physical stress.
It is tailored to you
Modern screening takes into account your age, family history, and personal risk. You get the right test, at the right time.
It helps close health gaps
When more people get screened, it helps reduce inequalities—especially in communities that might not have access to early diagnosis otherwise.
The bottom line
Cancer is becoming more common—but it does not have to be a death sentence. Early detection can save your life. By following screening guidelines, you can catch problems early—or prevent them entirely. If you are unsure about which screenings are right for you, talk to your doctor. They can help guide you based on your health, family history, and risk factors. It is one of the simplest, smartest ways to protect your health—and the people who care about you.
About the author
Dr. Melvin Sanicas is a physician-scientist with expertise in global health, immunology, and preventive medicine. He has been recognized internationally for his contributions to the fight against infectious diseases—including COVID-19, influenza, dengue, and tuberculosis. In 2021, he was awarded The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines Award for Science and Medicine, and in 2024, he received the Pamana ng Pilipino Presidential Award for his significant contributions to global health. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health, a Fellow of the Royal Society for Tropical Medicine and Hygiene and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
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