Cancer

Cervical cancer refers to cancer that originates in the cells lining the cervix, which is the organ connecting the uterus and the vagina. There are two main types of cervical cancers: The most common is squamous cell carcinoma, arising in the squamous (flattened) epithelial cells that line the cervix. The other is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the mucus-producing gland cells of the cervix.  The human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is the leading cause of cervical cancer.…

Shailaja Asave, a non-smoker, who developed lung cancer at 67, believed to be due to a gene mutation prevalent in Asian women, is undergoing targeted therapy and living each day to the fullest. Read about her diagnosis, treatment and unbeatable spirit. When were you detected with lung cancer? Last year in February 2017. It was already in the advanced stage, what is called Stage IV. What were your initial symptoms? I had a persistent dry cough for 3 months which did not go away with anti-allergy…

Dr Kumar Prabhash, Prof. Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, gives insights into the different types and stages of lung cancer and outlines the benefits of targeted therapy as treatment. How many different types of lung cancer are there? Earlier lung cancer was classified only into two major types: Small cell lung cancers (SCLC) and Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), based upon the microscopic appearance of the tumor cells. These two different types of cancers grow, spread as…

People get umpteen health news forwards and they often forward without verifying. Some even think "may be it will help some one". Dr. Aju Mathew, medical oncologist and director, Kerala Cancer Care shares his tips on how to spot the fake news forwards and whether you should forward or not. We live in an era of information superhighway. In a way, this is a more democratic way of communication. Everyone has a voice - not just those with power or knowledge. But in the cacophony of the voices, the…

Amita Modi, 44 from Ahmedabad, was diagnosed with Oral Tongue Cancer survivor when she was 28. Her 18 month old daughter motivated her to stay strong and positive through her cancer treatment. She still worries about her stress triggering off a relapse of cancer. When were you diagnosed, Amita? What were the early symptoms? In November of 2002, I noticed a small sore on my tongue. I tried some home remedies but got no results and it seemed to have grown bigger. During the December holidays, we…

Narayan Chandra Dey,72 from Bally, Howrah has been fighting prostate cancer for 7 years now. He talks about how he finds the will to combat his condition. Please tell us about your condition? I am surviving with prostate cancer for the last 7 years.  Prostate Cancer was diagnosed on 18/8/2011 after screening of PSA test which was high (69.8) and USG report revealing enlarged heterogeneous prostate. What were the early symptoms of prostate cancer? Difficulty while urinating, fever, more…

Shrenik Shah, 67 from Ahmedabad, India was diagnosed with Larynx (Vocal Folds) cancer, stage IV A 22 years ago. He now speaks with an Electrolarynx to motivate and inspire others. What were the early symptoms? What made you go see a doctor? I started getting hoarseness in my voice in late 1996. It was followed by breathlessness at night time and weight loss. I also would get so drowsy that I would sleep while standing. I am a non-smoker and have never had alcohol, tobacco, gutka, masala etc.…

Atabuddin Mondal,53 from Chakdaha, West Bengal has been suffering from Bronchogenic Carcinoma, and is now in a better form after going through chemotherapy cycles. He shares his experiences of handling the Big C. Please tell us about your condition. I have been suffering from Lung Cancer. When were you diagnosed? I was diagnosed on 25/02/2018 with Bronchogenic carcinoma,1st stage. What were the early symptoms? Being addicted to smoking, first came the change in voice and then I had a…

Nothing could be better than receiving valuable tips and strategies from cancer victors themselves to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life after breast cancer. We share key highlights and take-aways from the recently conducted webinar by PatientsEngage on Living Better After Breast Cancer. Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be harsh physically and emotionally. But it is not the end. You can bounce back and restore a normal life again. There are many ways to move forward, stay…

Board certified Genetic Counselor Dr. Mansi Vishal talks about the scenarios where genetic counselling is beneficial and where its not necessary. A useful interview that helps us understand the role of genetics in cancer.   What is genetic counselling or genetic consultation? As per the standard definition by National Society of genetic Counselors (NSGC), Genetic counselling as a process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of…