Shocked and surprised at a loved one’s cancer diagnosis? Being diagnosed with cancer and going through intensive treatment can cause immense physical discomfort as well as an emotional upheaval. As per statistics by multiple cancer research organizations; early detection and treatment helps save lives of cancer patients. Regular cancer screening is recommended for everyone. Cancer causes cells to divide uncontrollably. This can result in tumours, damage to the immune system, and other impairment that can prove fatal. India saw over 14 lakh new cancer cases in 2020 and the leading cancers were: breast, lung, mouth, cervix, uterus and tongue. World Health Organization (WHO) speculates that one in 10 Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and one in 15 will die of the disease. The theme for this year’s World Cancer Day, celebrated on 4th February “Close the Care Gap” aims to raise awareness about cancer and provide appropriate cancer care to all.
Types of Cancer
Cancer refers to an abnormal & unregulated growth of tissue, which may invade surrounding normal structures and also spread to sites distant from that of origin. These cells are termed cancer cells, malignant cells, or tumour cells. They are further identified by the name of the tissue that the abnormal cells originated from (for example, lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical cancer, etc). Cancers are broadly of 3 types:
- Carcinomas (70%)
Arise in membranes (coverings) and glands/ ducts of glands; commonest type of cancer; usually spreads to neighbouring sites, then to distant sites; important sites include head-neck, lung, breast, prostate, oesophagus, colorectum & anus. - Sarcomas (10-20%)
Arise from bone/muscle/nerve; less common; spreads to distant sites early. - Blood cancers
This includes leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma.
Symptoms of Cancer
It’s important to be aware of the warning symptoms of cancer, regardless of your age or health. Some of the signs and symptoms aren’t usually indicative of cancer. However it is critical to consult a medical specialist to assess your health and take appropriate action. The following are some of the most common cancer signs and symptoms in both men and women:
- Abnormal periods or pelvic pain.
- Breast changes.
- Chronic cough.
- Excessive bruising.
- Frequent fevers or infections.
- Skin changes.
- Persistent pain and fatigue.
- Stomach pain or nausea.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Unusual lumps.
Risk factors of Cancer
There has been extensive research on cancer over the years and studies suggest that the most common causes and risk factors of cancer are:
- Alcohol intake.
- Tobacco use.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Being overweight or obese.
- Poor dietary habits.
- Radiation exposure.
- Virus infections and other infections.
- Family history.
Common questions about Cancer
Cancer is a serious health condition and may be difficult for some people to understand and care about. Here are some common questions to ask your doctor and understand your condition better:
- What risk factors do I have about cancer?
- What is my chance of developing cancer?
- How can I lower my risk of cancer?
- What cancer screening tests do you recommend?
Cancer prevention
There is no definitive way to prevent cancer. However, you can make changes to lower the risk of getting cancer. Here are a few changes to adapt:
- Aim to be a maintain a healthy weight throughout life.
- Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
- Limit sugar and salt intake.
- Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco use.
- Exclusively breastfeed your baby.
- Get vaccinated.
- Be regular with cancer screenings.
Cancer care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Cancer symptoms vary according to the site of the disease. However, any abnormal lump or any unusual bleeding or discharge needs to be investigated by a specialist. Meet our team of highly trained specialists for comprehensive cancer care using high-end technologies that match international standards. Our team of oncologists and onco-surgeons work closely with the patient and offer multi-modal treatment that includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical treatment as well as rehabilitation care.
Our advanced technology includes:
- Minimal Access Surgery and Robotic Surgery for most cancers.
- Trilogy for radiotherapy, EdgeTM and Novalis Tx for radiosurgery.
- Latest PET Scan for precise diagnosis.
Consult our team of experts at our Centre for Cancer for prevention, timely screening, early diagnosis and appropriate cancer care. Please find below the website details for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_cancer.html