SuperColon - The Leader (June 2011)

SuperColon at Westfield Hurstville - The Leader (June 2011) 

The biggest attraction at Westfield Hurstville recently was not the sales but rather a seven metre-long "super colon". 

The inflatable display was in the centre court as part of an awareness campaign run nationally by Bowel Cancer Australia.  It was held in partnership with Hurstville Private Hospital and Sydney Colorectal Associates, who had staff on hand to talk to shoppers about bowel and colon cancer.

Shoppers were invited to walk through the three-metre high display, which included health information panels and reproductions of colon diseases.

Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in Australia, with more than 13,500 Australian diagnosed each year.  Common symptoms include bleeding after a bowel movement, unexplained tiredness and abdominal pain.  

Sydney Colorectal Associates surgeon Steve Gan said bowel cancer was treatable if detected early.   "Hopefully, the super colon will be a big reminder to get checked regularly," Dr Gan said.  "Early diagnosis offers the best chance possible for patients with bowel cancer for a good outcome."

The super colon has been displayed in St George and Sutherland Shire three times.