Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines, coming in third after cardiovascular and cerebrovascular illnesses. But did you know that colon cancer is the Philippines' second most common cancer?
"We're aware of all these cancers, breast cancer, of course, being the most prevalent, then we have lung cancer, reproductive cancers like cervical, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Unfortunately, colon cancer is more widespread than we realize," according to Cardinal Santos Medical Center's (CSMC) Dr. Kristine Monte is a resident oncologist.
As abnormal cell growths or polyps begin to multiply in the colon lining and rectum, colon cancer begins in the large intestine. Colon cancer, like most cancers, can spread to other regions of the body if left untreated.
"Colon cancer can strike anyone, of any gender or age," Monte stated. "Even if you have no family history of colon cancer, you may be at risk if you are prone to heavy drinking and smoking, eating too much-processed foods and red meat, being overweight or obese, or having Type 2 diabetes."
During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, CSMC hosted a lay colon cancer forum aimed at dispelling myths about the disease and raising awareness about the significance of regular screening.
Colon cancer originates in the large intestine when abnormal cell growths occur. To avoid the occurrence of colon cancer, Monte recommends making the necessary lifestyle adjustments. "It's critical to maintain a healthy weight and prevent being overweight or obese," she explained. "Avoid consumption of red meat such as hog and beef and high-fat items such as deep-fried foods or fast food. Increase your consumption of green leafy vegetables such as pechay, lettuce, legumes, and herbs, as well as fiber-rich fruits such as papaya, pineapple, and mango."
She also counseled against smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as well as frequent exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight requires at least 20 to 30 minutes of activity per day. Finally, Monte strongly advises patients to consult their doctor, especially if their family has a history of colon cancer or if they are experiencing unusual symptoms similar to colon cancer, such as persistent abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, change in bowel movement, or rectal bleeding.
"Because Oncology and Gastroenterology are two of CSMC's major disciplines, it's safe to assume that we are quite involved in your colorectal health," Monte explained. "We provide a variety of services." Services, such as standard colonoscopy, and we are quite pleased with our world-class facilities and competent professionals."
Colonoscopy is a safe and effective way to identify colon cancer. It assists clinicians in identifying and diagnosing colorectal cancers early on, which helps reduce cancer fatalities and patient suffering. Patients are urged to begin routine colorectal cancer screenings.
Additional tests, such as Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, CT Colonography, and Double Contrast Barium Enema, should be performed every five years, and colonoscopies every ten years. "Colon cancer is very much preventable if medical providers can detect and treat it early," Monte emphasized. "That is why it is critical to promote frequent colon cancer screening." Screening at the age of 50, with annual Fecal Immunohistochemical Tests.
For more information about the programs and services that CSMC offers, please visit
https://cardinalsantos.com.ph/. CSMC is also on Facebook, like and follow them at
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