March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It is a celebration where thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, and volunteers join to share their stories and spread awareness on the prevention of colorectal cancer and the importance of early detection. This offers healthcare providers who care for patients with diseases of the colon and rectum a valuable opportunity to educate their community about these diseases and promote awareness of the importance of colorectal cancer screening, prevention, and treatment.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among Filipinos, both men and women. People over the age of 45, as well as those with a family history of colorectal cancer, are at risk of developing this disease.
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer in the colon or rectum or both. Symptoms include a change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, discomfort in the abdomen, weakness, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, screening could save at least 60% of colon cancer deaths. The Department of Health also emphasized that the best way to prevent colorectal cancer is through screening. It is one of the most preventable and highly treatable cancers if detected early.
People who consume a lot of processed meats, such as those that are smoked, cured, salted, and contain a lot of preservatives, are at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. It is also linked to consuming more red meat in the diet, as well as increasing alcohol consumption.
Colorectal cancer can be prevented through a variety of dietary and lifestyle modifications. Consume more fruits, non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, beans and peas, and other fiber-rich foods to help in digestion. Cut down your consumption of red meat and processed meats. Add calcium and vitamin D to your diet. In addition, an increase in fish consumption could also help your body promote healthier digestion.
Be physically active and maintain a healthy weight. People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Physical activity will help you lose weight and reduce inflammation in your digestive tract, which promotes healthy digestion. Stop smoking and cut down on alcohol intake.
Prevention is better than cure. Cut down your risk of colorectal cancer by having a healthy lifestyle. And before you go out to dine at a 'Samgyupsalan' or another BBQ joint, think about your colon.
Visit https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineSocietyofGastroenterology for further information, or read more from the Department of Health at https://bit.ly/FAQsColorectal
Source:
- UCLA Health. Nutrition Tips for Colorectal Cancer Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cykHj0Un3fI
- Colorectal Cancer Alliance (2022). Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Retrieved from https://www.ccalliance.org/about/awareness-month
- https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/608-philippines-fact-sheets.pdf
- Healthy Pilipinas Facebook Page
Written by: NO I Janna Alexia M. Necio and NPC Milagros Elisa V. Federizo
