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UCF Applaud Corrie Cancer Storyline
By Derval Keenan, 9/8/2004 12:04:07 PM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) has praised Coronation Street scriptwriters and researchers for raising the important issue of bowel cancer through Dev Alahan’s diagnosis.
The dramatic development follows Dev’s battle to come to terms with a bowel cancer diagnosis in the run up to his wedding to Maya Sharma.
Naomi Thompson, Cancer Prevention Officer, UCF said, “As with any cancer diagnosis, this new storyline is emotional rollercoaster for Dev, his family and friends. The storyline conveys a strong message that bowel cancer can occur at any age. However the key message is that an early diagnosis and treatment leads to a better quality of life.
“The Ulster Cancer Foundation highlight the fight Against Bowel Cancer, during April, which is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, by promoting simple, positive steps people across the province can take to prevent the disease. After skin and lung cancer, bowel cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Northern Ireland. There are around 1,000 cases of bowel cancer diagnosed each year and around 400 deaths.
“While these statistics are alarming there is good news in that steps can be taken to prevent bowel cancer such as maintaining a healthy diet by eating at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables, and cereals every day, eat less fat, exercise regularly, reduce your intake of red/processed meat and be aware of your normal bowel habits.
“People may feel embarrassed by the symptoms of bowel cancer however GP’s are very sensitive to the needs of the patient - and don’t forget they’ve heard it all before. Some symptoms can be caused by a less serious condition, therefore people shouldn’t just wait and hope that the symptoms will disappear but get it checked out as soon as possible.”
Early detection is key to treatment of this disease and the Ulster Cancer Foundation have highlighted the following possible early symptoms:
· Change in bowel habits lasting up to six weeks including diarrhoea or constipation.
· Blood in stools.
· Unexplained weight loss.
· Pain or discomfort from back passage.
· Feeling of not having emptied bowel properly after bowel motion.
Such symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions but it is important to get them checked out.
For further information and advice on bowel cancer please contact the Ulster Cancer Foundation on Tel: 028 9049 2007 or their Freefone Cancer Helpline
on 0800 783 33 39.
-ends-
For further information please contact
Derval Keenan, PR and Events Officer, UCF on 028 9049 2007 or dervalkeenan@ulstercancer.org
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