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…
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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…
“On paper, I am better: I no longer have cancer… But off paper, I feel far from being a healthy 26-year-old woman,” said Suleika Jaouad in a New York Times article Lost in transition after cancer, documenting her battered and traumatised state after cancer treatment. Minakshi Ray, who battled breast cancer, responds to that article and offers her take on life after cancer. That I have got a second chance to live is good enough reason for me to live life more…
Nutritious foods that give you the most bang for your buck. By Dietitian and Diabetes educator Ujjwala Baxi When we hear ‘superfoods’, we think quinoa, blueberries, salmon, chia seeds etc thanks to clever marketing and hype. These are not only expensive, but can be hard to get hold of, especially in India. The good news is that there are ‘superfoods’ that are readily available and affordable, but are often ignored. They pack as much punch as the much-touted superfoods but are overlooked as…
Chemotherapy is a standard line of treatment for many cancers. However, it does come with side effects. Dr Shital Patel explains the common side effects due to chemotherapy like mouth sores, nausea, dry skin, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss and more and how to get relief from them. Chemotherapy is a type of therapy where single or combination of drugs are given to control cancer and halt/slow progression & growth. They work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, leading to cell…
The delay in diagnosis changes the prognosis, treatment approach, and the cost associated with it, dramatically By Jame Abraham, M.D, FACP, Cleveland Clinic Arathi is a 47-year-old, highly successful systems engineer from Mumbai. About six months ago, she noticed some discomfort in her left breast. When she raised her arm above her head to comb her hair, she noticed some skin changes on the left breast. But she chose to ignore that, too. When she developed a constant nagging pain in her…
