Double Trouble

Preventing Colorectal and Liver Cancer in Singapore: Facts and Tips to Save Lives

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Among the most common yet preventable types of cancer in Singapore are colorectal and liver cancer. While they arise in different organs, what they share in common is that many cases start from modifiable (changeable) factors, and early detection significantly improves outcomes. Understanding how to shield ourselves from these diseases could be lifesaving.

How Common are Colorectal and Liver Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Singapore overall, amongst both men and women. Liver cancer is the 5th most common cancer diagnosed in men, and also the 5th most common cause of cancer-related death among women. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2022, in 2018-2022, the lifetime risk for cancer was 26.6% and 25.8% respectively for males and females - an estimated one in four Singapore residents may develop cancer by the age of 75.

Can Colorectal Cancer Occur in Younger People?

Globally, as well as in Singapore, we have seen a trend towards colorectal cancer in younger people. A research paper jointly published in 2025 by researchers at the National University of Singapore, DUKE-NUS Medical School, Singapore General Hospital, National Cancer Centre Singapore, and National University Hospital, studied the population trends in early-onset colorectal cancer in Singapore. They found that from the year 1968 to 2019, out of a total of 53,044 colorectal cancer cases, 6,183 adults or 11.7% were diagnosed between 20-49 years old.

Preventing Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer prevention starts with lifestyle and dietary changes. Some of the beneficial things you can do include:

Increase fibre intake.

Maintain a healthy weight.

Exercise regularly.