What do late President Corazon Aquino, US President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II have in common?

They all succumbed to colorectal cancer.

Because of the rising cases of colorectal cancer, now ranks as the 4th leading cancer sites for both men and women in the Philippines, the health department strongly advised the public to include fiber-rich food such as fruits and vegetables in their regular diets; to engage in physical activity; and to keep consumption of red meat in moderation.

Based on the DOH data, about 5,787 Pinoys have been affected by colorectal cancer in 2010. This disease usually affects people 50 years old and above. Likewise, people with family history of colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer and breast cancer predispose them to the ailment.

The good news is that it can still be controlled before it starts to affect you, so says Health Secretary Enrique Ona at the launch of this year’s observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month dubbed as “Kapit-Bisig Sa Paglaban Sa Colorectal Cancer”.

The disease can be controlled by following these simple tips on lifestyle medication such as low-fat diet with plenty of fiber; five servings of fruits and vegetables per day; exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week, and quit smoking.

Healthy lifestyle and early detection remains the important factor in fighting cancer, Ona said

If you’re reading about samsung tvs now, please check the following signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer for your peace of mind. These are constipation, or intermittent constipation and diarrhea, difficult bowel movement or change in bowel habit, blood in the stool, weight loss, fever, loss of appetite, extreme tiredness, nausea or vomiting, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, and gas pains or cramps. Rectal bleeding or anemia may also occur in persons over 50 years old.

Source: doh.gov.ph