Cancer

Ovarian cancer survivor, Meghna, 30, tells you why. Here, she shares her experience – symptoms and treatment – and her learnings. Please tell us a bit about your condition.  I have a rare form of ovarian cancer called Granulosa Cell Tumour (GCT). These are classified as stromal tumours originating from the sex cord. GCT accounts for about 2-3% of all ovarian cancer cases. I was staged 1a (12x7cm tumour removed intact). When were you diagnosed?  I was diagnosed in…

Food and Nutrition Cancer and cancer treatments can be harsh on the body. Lack of appetite, weight loss and muscle wasting are common during cancer and treatment. Healthy food choices that are high in calories and proteins can boost cell growth, weight gain and improve recovery. Here are some tips for good nutrition that can be followed while treatment is ongoing: Eat small  and frequent snacks Eat every few hours Include lots of leafy greens and vegetables in the diet (but make sure they…

The options depend on the type of cancer, how far it has spread, age, lifestyle and the health status of the patient. There is no single treatment for cancer and doctors often combine different types of treatment. Surgery - Surgery is the oldest known method of treating cancer. Surgery is quite effective if the cancer has not spread or metastasised. Surgery is often combined with other forms of therapy, like radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy - Chemotherapy is generally used when the…

What causes cancer? Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in cancer prevention efforts and early detection strategies. Here are some common triggers: Genetics - Genetic predisposition can increase the risk of certain cancers, especially in families with a history of the disease. Each cell in our body contains DNA, which controls its action. Any change or mutation to the DNA that damages the genes involved in cell division can lead to cancer. Cancer occurs when because of gene…

Cancer accounted for an estimate 9.6 million deaths in 2018. This cancer burden can be reduced by avoiding key risk factors, early detecttion and management of patients. The risk of developing cancer depends on genes, environment and lifestyle. If the cancer is linked to certain behaviours, it may be prevented. Here are some dos and don’ts: Do not use tobacco (smokless and smoking) to protect against oral, lung and several other cancers Do not drink excessive alcohol to protect against liver…

Cancer symptoms depend on the site and size of the cancer and how much it has affected the organ. If the cancer has spread, symptoms may appear in different parts of the body. Common symptoms include: Unexpected weight loss – Unexplained weight loss, without changes in diet or exercise can be a symptom of various cancers, including pancreatic, stomach, oesophageal, and lung cancer. Persistent fatigue and fever that does not improve with the rest, often caused by the body’s immune response to…

Cancer is usually named after the part of the body where it originates. According to WHO, there are 20 million cancer new cases and 9.7 million deaths globally. Approximately 55.3 million individuals were estimated to have survived within five years after being diagnosed with cancer. One out of every five individuals will experience cancer diagnosis in their life time. The five top most common cancers among men, globally, are:  Prostate Colorectal Lung  Skin cancer  Testicular…

Early detection can improve the effectiveness and success of the treatment. Depending on the type of cancer, the doctor may recommend some of the following: Imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasound to locate the tumour and the organ affected by it. PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Involves the injection of a radioactive tracer to highlight areas of cancer cells. Blood samples are analyzed for signs of cancer, which may include cancer cells, protein, or…

Says Dr Subhojit Dey, cancer researcher at the Indian Institute of Public Health. He tells us why, and how to protect yourself. 70% of Indian women with breast cancer seek medical help at the late stage. 5-year survival rate is around only 60%. In Developed Countries, for example in the USA 60-80% women reach the doctor at an early stage and 5 year survival is almost 90%. Awareness is key and saves lives. Breast cancer incidence is increasing. What are the factors…

Rajita, now 42, looks back on her ‘shock’ diagnosis and treatment, and how she kept going through rough chemo sessions.  Please tell us a bit about your condition and your history.  I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 31.  After I noticed a lump, I went to my gynaecologist as there’s a history of breast cancer in my family. I lost my mother to it at age 56. She suggested needle biopsy. The report of FNAC (fine-needle aspiration cytology) came out…