Colon cancer

Colon cancer is a cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon -- the longest part of the large intestine. According to the 2005 Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates, cancers of the colon and rectum combined rank third overall leading cancer sites. These cancers combined were the third leading cancer sites among males and fourth leading cancer sites among females. Philippine estimates for 2005 included 8,585 new cases and 5,558 deaths. Symptoms of colon cancer include a change in bowel habits such as recurrent diarrhea and constipation, particularly with the presence of abdominal discomfort, weight loss, unexplained anemia, an blood in the stool. At risk are those who have personal or family history of colon cancer, polyps in the colon, or inflammatory bowel disease. Evidence suggests that colon cancer may be linked to a diet high in fat and deficient in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly a healthy diet, will decrease a person's risk of having colon cancer. Early colon cancer is curable, and surgery is the most effective method of treatment. Former President Corazon Aquino has been diagnosed with colon cancer, her daughter Kris said on Monday. Among the prominent colon cancer survivors in the Philippines are Mandaluyong Mayor Benhur Abalos and former Commission on Higher Education Chair Rolando Dizon. Known personalities who died from this disease included actresses Rio Diaz and Chat Silayan and Antonio Ejercito, brother of former President Joseph Estrada. Sources: DOH National Center for Health Promotion; 2005 Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates, US National Cancer Institute, GMA News