Cancer is a long-standing, multifactorial disease involving abnormal growth of cells, which metastasizes or invades other organs of the body. It is one of the top causes of mortality globally but has achieved some level of advance in its detection, treatment, and survival rate thanks to medical science. Knowledge regarding various types of cancer, their presentation, and etiological factors is necessary so they can be diagnosed early and managed efficiently.
In this whole guide, we are going to discuss types of cancers, symptoms, and reasons. We are also going to discuss the process of cancer treatment in India, such as the experience of doctors like Dr. Vikesh Shah, one of India’s top cancer doctors, and new treatments such as immunotherapy with the experience of an immunotherapy doctor in India.
What is Cancer?
Cancer starts when regular cells develop genetic changes that interfere with normal regulation of cell growth and cell death. Rather than dying, the cells just keep on growing uncontrollably, grouping together as lumps called tumors (except in blood cancers such as leukemia where tumors do not form). Tumors are noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Malignant tumors invade nearby tissues and metastasize to other locations in the body, which is why cancer is fatal.
Types of Cancer, Their Symptoms, and Pathogenesis
There are over 100 different cancers, and each of them is described as the name of the organ or tissue in which it grows. The most common groups include carcinomas, sarcomas, leukemias, lymphomas, and melanomas. Let’s discuss the most common cancers, their symptoms, and risk factors.
1. Breast Cancer
Symptoms:
- Lump or mass in breast or underarm
- Change in size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of skin over the breast
- Discharge or inversion of nipple
- Breast tenderness or pain
Causes:
Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2) and hormonal causes, age, and lifestyle such as alcohol drinking and obesity as etiologies cause breast cancer. Heredity is also an etiology.
2. Lung Cancer
Symptoms:
- Coughing up blood or chronic cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Unintended weight loss
- Hoarseness
Causes:
Smoking is the primary cause and is responsible for 85% of lung cancers. Exposure to secondhand smoke, asbestos, radon, and air pollution are additional risk factors.
3. Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer)
Symptoms:
- Alteration in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Blood in stool
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
Causes:
Eating high red or processed meat, low fiber, obesity, inactive lifestyle, smoking, and history of polyp or inflammatory bowel disease increase the risk.
4. Prostate Cancer
Symptoms:
- Difficulty passing urine
- Frequent nighttime urination
- Weakness in the urine stream
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pelvic pain
Causes:
Family history and age are the most common causes. Hormonal imbalance and lifestyle are other cause factors.
5. Skin Cancer (including Melanoma)
Symptoms:
- New, enlarging, or changing skin moles or spots
- Sores that will not heal
- Mole’s change in size, shape, or color
- Itching, tenderness, or pain around a mole
Causes:
Too much ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or a tanning bed is the most common cause. Sunburn history, weakened immune system, and fair skin color are also risk factors.
6. Leukemia
Symptoms:
- Several infections
- Weakness and fatigue
- Bleeding or bruising easily
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pain in bones or joints
Causes:
Leukemia may be caused by gene mutations and radiation or chemical exposure in excess. Certain viral infections and inherited conditions are causes as well.
7. Lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin)
Symptoms:
- Swollen lymph nodes in neck, armpit, or groin
- Fever and night sweats
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Itchy skin
Causes:
Cause is not always evident but may include immune system compromise, infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus), and chemical exposure.
8. Pancreatic Cancer
Symptoms:
- Abdominal or back pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
- Loss of appetite
- Blood clots
Causes:
Risk is increased by smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and family history.
Importance of Early Detection and Symptom Awareness
Early diagnosis needs to be identified as the prognosis for cancer is much improved with early treatment. The majority of cancers are asymptomatic until late stages, although, so screening on a regular basis, particularly in individuals with an elevated risk, is necessary.
Cancer Care in India: An Emerging Hotspot for Advanced Treatment
India is the first choice for cancer care with the finest hospitals, the latest technology, and seasoned oncologists at a tenth of the Western equivalent. People from all over the world travel to India to undergo cancer treatment since it is within budget and of tolerable quality.
From surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to newer modalities such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, India provides advanced cancer treatment. Highly trained specialists such as Dr. Vikesh Shah helm multidisciplinary teams, providing patient-tailored treatment programs as per individual patient requirements.
Role of Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment
Immunotherapy, the fifth cancer treatment modality after surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, takes advantage of the patient’s immune system to attack the cancer cells. Immunotherapy has completely transformed the treatment of melanomas, lung cancer, and some forms of lymphoma.
Those coming in for immunotherapy have access to some of the best treatment in the world from an immunotherapy physician in India with expertise in this emerging niche. Physicians such as Dr. Vikesh Shah are on the leading edge, and patients get a chance to be involved in clinical trials and new immunotherapeutic medications.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevention
Although there is a genetic component, cancers may be avoided by changing lifestyle factors, which include:
- Prevention of use of tobacco
- Reducing alcohol
- Fruit and vegetable-rich diet
- Exercise on a regular basis
- Protection of the skin from the sun for extended periods
- Vaccination against viruses that induce cancer like HPV and Hepatitis B
Early detection tests like mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears also identify precancerous lesions.
Why would anybody choose Cancer Treatment in India?
India’s healthcare system is supported by highly qualified oncologists, well-equipped hospitals, and low-cost treatment. World-class doctors such as Dr. Vikesh Shah lend authenticity to cancer therapy in India.
Following are the advantages that are conferred to the patients:
- Tailored treatment plans
- Multidisciplinary team
- Access to advanced treatments such as immunotherapy
- Low cost in relation to most nations
- Counseling and supportive care services
For every cancer patient looking to receive cancer treatment in India, there is a need to consult the experts so as to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
Cancer is a multifaceted and heterogenous disorder with diverse types with diverse aetiology and symptomatology. Awareness of diversity and early detection can spell life and death. India is one of the best places to get state-of-the-art cancer treatment, holding hope and cure in its grasp by dint of competent oncologists like Dr. Vikesh Shah and exposure to advanced modalities such as immunotherapy.
If you or your loved one is diagnosed with cancer, information regarding the condition and initial treatment at renowned institutions can prove to be a major assistance. With ongoing research and improved treatment, the future outlook of enhanced survival and well-being in the cancer patient community is promising.
If you are looking for the best and most updated cancer treatment in India or need professional advice, Dr. Vikesh Shah is amongst the best cancer specialists in the country dedicated to providing personalized and caring care. Contact us today!