Our colon is the absorber of water and salt from the remaining food residue after it passes through the small intestine. The waste products that are left after it goes through the colon proceeds to the rectum where it is stored until it passes out of the body through the anus. Any blockage or obstruction such as polyps in the colon or rectum would affect the process of digestion of food in the body which may result discomfort to an individual. To emphasize the importance of the colon and rectum in the body, March of every year is observed as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month that aims to provide better understanding of colorectal cancer and create awareness about the importance of its early detection and cure.
Cancer starts when cells in the body start to grow out of control. Cells in any part of the body can become cancer, and can spread to the other areas of the body. Colorectal cancer (CRC) or also known as colon or rectal cancer depending where the cancer starts, is a type of cancer when there is growth or polyps in the inner lining of the colon or rectum, or may spread to both. Most common symptoms that can be seen in an individual with CRC are changes in bowel habits, diarrhea or constipation, blood in feces making stools look black, pain and bloating in the abdomen, fatigue, unexplained weight loss and iron deficiency in men and women after menopause. According to the recent data from the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology, there are over 3,000 new cases of colorectal cancer among Filipinos annually, of these 3,000, over 2,000 Filipinos die based on the reported cases.
The public is reminded to take extra precaution to avoid acquisition and worsening of CRC. It is important to undergo CRC screening to find polyps in the colon or rectum that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Aside from CRC screening, avoid consuming too much processed and red meats since these foods are harder to digest, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables instead as it provides antioxidants that help fight against cancer and contains vitamins and minerals that will boost the immune system. Next is to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as these contribute to the deterioration of the immune system and people who drink and smoke has higher probability of obtaining CRC. Lastly, be physically active and maintain a normal body weight. Studies show that low physical activity increases the risk of acquiring diseases such as colorectal cancer.
We must not forget that prevention is better than cure. A disease like colorectal cancer is preventable when early detection is made such as colorectal screening and living a healthy lifestyle is being observed. Every part of our body must be taken cared of since any impairment in the body will affect the whole well-being of a person.
Have yourself checked, eat and live a healthy lifestyle. During this time wherein various diseases occur, awareness and a healthy body and strong immune system are our best protection to fight against diseases.
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
