Colorectal cancer is one form of cancer which develops slowly over a period of many years. It is a cancer from uncontrolled cell growth in the inner lining of the colon or rectum.  It commonly develops from a tumor, an abnormal tissue which can be benign or malignant or from a polyp, a non-cancerous tumor.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide and accounted for 608,000 deaths, affecting mostly individuals over 50 years of age. The incidence rate of the disease is more than 14 times higher in adults 50 years and older than in those younger than 50.

In the Philippines, colorectal cancer ranks fourth among the cancer-related deaths of Filipinos. According to the Philippine Cancer Society, Inc., almost 75 percent of the individuals affected were aged 50 and above while only about three percent were children 14 years old and below. It is estimated that one out of 1800 Filipinos will develop the cancer yearly.

Individuals who have personal or family history of colorectal cancer, polyps in the rectum or colon and inflammatory bowel disease are at high-risk. Lifestyle factors, particularly diet, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity were reported as risk factors. Studies showed that diet rich in fat and deficient in whole grains, fruits and vegetables increases the risk of getting the disease.

Most early colorectal cancers have no symptoms.  That’s why people were advised to consult a doctor whenever they experience any of the following symptoms: changes in bowel habits such as frequent diarrhea and/or constipation, especially when accompanied by abdominal discomfort, weight loss, unexplained anemia, and blood in the stool.

Two decades of awareness campaigns were pushed by the Department of Health (DOH) to inform the public that colorectal cancer like any other cancers can be cured if detected early. DOH encourages people to maintain healthy lifestyle by engaging in physical activities, eating a balanced diet, reducing alcohol intake and avoiding smoking to decrease the risk of acquiring the disease.

At the moment, the Department of Health – Philippine Cancer Control Program (DOH–PCCP) recommends screening for colorectal cancer for all persons aged 50 years and above as colon cancer increases risk after the age of 50.