In Hong Kong, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and head and neck cancers are also relatively prevalent. Radiotherapy plays a critical role in the treatment of both.
Cancer treatments—particularly chemotherapy drugs such as docetaxel, carboplatin, anthracycline, paclitaxel, or vinorelbine, as well as head and neck radiotherapy—cause taste alterations in about 86% of patients. These changes may include a metallic taste, bitterness, diminished taste sensitivity, or even complete loss of taste. Symptoms can last from several weeks to months (SpringerLink).
EGFR-targeted therapies (including EGFR-TKIs and EGFR antibodies) have significantly prolonged survival in various solid tumors such as lung cancer, head and neck cancer, and colorectal cancer. Their efficacy is well established. However, side effects—particularly cutaneous toxicities—pose a major threat to patients’ quality of life, sometimes forcing dose reductions or even treatment discontinuation.
This article has been revised from the perspective of Hong Kong patients, emphasizing “prevention first, response second”, and provides practical answers to common patient concerns and management strategies.
Traditional cancer research mainly focused on cancer cells themselves. However, recent studies have revealed that the tumor microenvironment (TME)—the ecosystem surrounding cancer cells—plays a crucial role in cancer development.
Many patients believe they can fully relax after completing cancer treatment. In reality, regular follow-ups are essential to detect recurrence or metastasis at an early stage. According to Hong Kong medical guidelines, survivors should undergo follow-up assessments every 4–6 months or annually, depending on individual circumstances and doctor recommendations.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and new cases in Hong Kong continue to rise every year. Scientific research shows that around 85% of cancers are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors, while only 5–10% are caused by inherited genes. This means that by changing our lifestyle, we can significantly reduce both cancer risk and recurrence.
The MD Anderson Cancer Center in the U.S. introduced the “Mix of Six” lifestyle framework, highlighting six essential principles for cancer prevention and survivorship.
In a fast-paced city like Hong Kong, stress is part of daily life. Work demands, family responsibilities, financial burdens, and the anxiety of illness itself can all take a toll on the body. Short-term stress may only cause mild effects such as fatigue or a cold, but chronic stress can suppress the immune system and significantly increase the risk of cancer recurrence and metastasis.
Research shows that only about 5–10% of cancers are caused by inherited genes, while more than 85% are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors. Dietary habits, lack of exercise, obesity, environmental toxins, stress, and poor sleep can all influence epigenetic switches—turning cancer-promoting or cancer-suppressing genes on or off.
In Hong Kong, many cancer survivors report issues such as insomnia, light sleep, or frequent night-time awakenings. Quality sleep not only helps the body repair and restore energy but also strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and supports the body’s ability to fight cancer.
Research shows that alcohol consumption is strongly associated with several types of cancer, including oral, throat, esophageal, liver, breast, and colorectal cancers. Other cancers—such as pancreatic, ovarian, prostate, stomach, uterine, and bladder cancers—may also be linked to drinking habits.
