Modifiable Factors and Colon Cancer Risk in Thai Population.

To demonstrate the possible impact of modifiable factors on colon cancer development in Thai population, we conducted this case-control study from June 2016 until June 2017. The study was conducted in 11 Thai provincial hospitals. The hospitals in this study were selected by stratification by regions. Patients included 504 ones who were newly diagnosed with colon cancer within 1 month. In the control group, 997 health individuals were enrolled. Both case and control were adjusted by age. The results of this study showed that age and socioeconomic factors were associated with colon cancer risk. In addition, it was found that family history of colon cancer had very high association with colon cancer risk. Behavioral factors, including smoking, inadequate physical exercise, and salty food consumption were associated with colon cancer. We detected no association between obesity, alcohol consumption, and colon cancer. The results suggested that colon cancer might have higher association with genetic factors than behavioral factors among Thai patients. Based on the results of this study, stop smoking and promote adequate physical activity are suggested to reduce the incidence of colon cancrr among Thai patients.

The 100% condom use programme in Asia.

One of the main reasons for the rapid spread of HIV in Asian countries is the massive transmission among sex workers and clients. Therefore, effective interventions to prevent HIV transmission through sex work are necessary. Many efforts have been made to promote condom use in sex work. The most significant approach is the 100% Condom Use Programme. Since its conception in 1989, this programme has been implemented in Thailand, Cambodia, Philippines, Viet Nam, China, Myanmar, Mongolia and Laos PDR, with variations in programme components between countries. The main principle is to promote the practice of "No condom - No sex" in all types of sex work, through collaboration between local authorities, sex business owners and sex workers. Variations include formation of sex workers' self-help groups, peer education and issuance of membership cards by local authorities. Sex workers are empowered when they are able to refuse sex without a condom. In Thailand, the programme has increased the use of condoms in sex work from 14% in early 1989 to over 90% since 1992. The 100% Condom Use Programmes in Thailand and Cambodia, which are being implemented on a nationwide basis, are the main reason for the decline in the HIV epidemic. Scaling-up of activities is taking place in all other six countries.