Public urged to boost awareness on colorectal cancer

Lifestyle | Health & Family Posted on 2026-03-11 01:34:24

MANILA – Health authorities on Monday called on the public to be more informed and proactive in preventing colorectal cancer as the country observes Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month this March.

In an advisory, the Department of Health (DOH) said the campaign aims to improve public understanding of how to prevent, detect early, and properly treat colorectal cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the Philippines.

Colorectal cancer forms in the colon or rectum and often starts as small growths known as polyps. If these polyps are not treated early, they can gradually develop into cancer. The disease is most commonly diagnosed in people aged 50 and older.

Health officials said possible warning signs include long-lasting changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue or anemia.

To lower the risk of developing the disease, the DOH advised the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating foods rich in fiber, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation reminded members that treatment for colorectal cancer is included under its Z Benefit Package, which supports patients with serious illnesses.

Under the program, PhilHealth provides up to PHP150,000 coverage for Stage 1 to 2 low-risk colon cancer and up to PHP300,000 for Stage 2 to 3 high-risk cases.

For rectal cancer, the benefit ranges from PHP150,000 to PHP400,000 depending on the stage of the disease and the treatment required.

The benefit package may cover hospital room and board, medicines, laboratory tests, surgery, and professional fees when patients receive treatment in PhilHealth-accredited hospitals.

The DOH emphasized that early detection and prompt treatment can greatly improve survival rates and help prevent complications from colorectal cancer.

NPO News Team | PNA Philippine News Agency - PR

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