CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The City Government of San Fernando through its City Health Office (CHO) and in partnership with the Philippine Society of Gastroenterologist (PSG) on Tuesday hosted a colorectal (colon) cancer prevention and control forum at Heroes Hall here.
City public health nurses, community health nurses and midwives, barangay health workers and Fernandinos whose family members have cases related to the disease, attended the forum to get educated on the prevention and treatment of colon cancer.
Resource speaker Dr. Marylaine Dujungco of PSG mentioned that colorectal or colon cancer is the growth of polyps or lumps in the large intestine or in the person's rectum, or the so-called colon and rectum, which is the source of the term "colorectal."
Dujungco also explained that colon cancer indications include those under diet, lifestyle, and uncontrolled risk factors.
"These symptoms of cancer include weight loss, fatigue, blood discharge, changes in bowel movements, and abdominal pain. Aside from these, there are no other ways to prevent this cancer if they exist in the family genes," Dujungco said.
Dujungco added that the top roots of colon cancer are alcohol consumption, smoking, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity.
According to the PSG, colorectal or colon cancer is third among all types of cancers that cause mortality or deaths in the country.
Dujungco urged the attendees to eat more vegetables, fruits, and fresh meats instead of processed meats and canned goods, have regular exercise, and maintain proper weight.
"I encourage you all to do the tips and go to check-ups in order to prevent or remove pre-cancerous polyps or lumps before it becomes cancer. If you ever find any, you have to treat them while it's early, since it's easier to be treated," Dujungco added.
Meanwhile, CHO urged all of the attendees and Fernandinos to visit their office and all rural health units in the city for the testing kits distribution that will determine their colon and rectum conditions. (Nicole Renee David)