Maria Corazon “Cory” Cojuangco Aquino was a President of the Philippines from 1986-1992 and was a world-renowned advocate of democracy, peace, women’s empowerment, and religious piety. She served as the 11th president of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. She was the first female president of the Philippines and was Asia’s first female president. She died from Stage IV colon cancer today, Saturday, August 1. There is an informative and touching time line of her disease, from first diagnosis through treatment and ultimately her death.

About 1 in 15 people will get colon cancer so it’s important to know the symptoms:

A common symptom of colorectal cancer is a change in bowel habits. These symptoms include:

• Having diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely
• Finding blood (either bright red or very dark) in your stool
• Finding your stools are narrower than usual
• Frequently having gas pains or cramps, or feeling full or bloated
• Losing weight with no known reason
• Feeling very tired all the time
• Having nausea or vomiting

Most often, these symptoms are not due to cancer. Other health problems can cause the same symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Usually, early cancer does not cause pain. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.

Additional information on risk factors, diagnosis and treatment: