"Early Detection Is Key"... Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Holds Public Lecture on Colorectal Cancer

Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Gwangju Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center recently held a public lecture on colorectal cancer in observance of "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month." Photo by Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital

Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Gwangju Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center announced on September 22 that it recently held a public lecture on colorectal cancer in observance of "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month."

This lecture was organized by the Gwangju Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center and the Department of Colorectal Surgery as an open event where patients, their families, and local residents could all participate together.

The medical staff introduced the latest treatment knowledge and practical lifestyle tips. Through a Q&A session, participants were able to ask questions and receive answers about medical information that they were curious about but found difficult to access, creating a space for direct communication.

The lecture covered three main topics: ▲ Prevention and screening of colorectal cancer (Professor Kim Jesung, Department of Gastroenterology) ▲ Treatment methods for colorectal cancer (Professor Park Hyungmin, Department of Colorectal Surgery) ▲ Nutritional management during and after treatment (Team Leader Hwang Miri, Nutrition Team).

Professor Kim Jesung emphasized, "Colorectal cancer ranks second in incidence and third in mortality among cancers in Korea, but 70 to 90 percent of cases can be prevented through regular colonoscopy screenings. Along with maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, it is essential to undergo regular checkups."

The second speaker, Professor Park Hyungmin of the Department of Colorectal Surgery, covered the overall treatment of colorectal cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. He explained, "From polypectomy via colonoscopy to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, individualized treatment is possible according to the patient's condition and cancer stage. Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital is improving patients' recovery times and quality of life through laparoscopic and robotic surgeries."

In the final lecture, Nutrition Team Leader Hwang Miri introduced dietary management methods for colorectal cancer patients. She advised, "Red meat and processed meats increase the risk of colorectal cancer, while vegetables, fruits, and whole grains have a strong preventive effect. During treatment, a balanced diet that is easy to digest is necessary to alleviate side effects and aid recovery, and after treatment, it is important to consistently maintain healthy eating habits to prevent recurrence."

Before the lecture, a campaign to raise awareness about colorectal cancer screening was held in the lobby on the first floor of the hospital's main building, drawing the attention of visitors. The campaign aimed to encourage participation in colorectal cancer screening and to collect feedback from local residents for future cancer management initiatives.

Kim Hyungrok, Director of the Gwangju Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center, stated, "This lecture was a valuable opportunity to share accurate information about colorectal cancer and to allow patients and their families to communicate directly with the medical staff. We will continue to hold various public lectures on cancer so that local residents can prevent cancer early and maintain healthy lifestyle habits, and we will actively support these efforts."