When we talk about health, it is important to talk about cancer too. Many women today are getting affected by cancer. Some types are more common, while some are rare. But all types need attention. Cancer does not always come with warning signs. Many women do not feel anything until the disease has grown. That is why knowing about it can really help.
Dr. Vikesh Shah, who has been helping people with cancer for many years, believes that awareness is always the first step.. If women know what signs to look for, they can take action early. Early action means better chances of getting better. In this blog, let us talk in simple words about the types of cancer that happen in women. This is not to scare anyone, but to help everyone stay alert and take care of their body.
Breast Cancer
This is the most common cancer in women. It starts in the breast. Many times, women feel a lump or swelling in the breast. Sometimes the skin changes or there may be fluid coming out that is not normal.
Some women ask if all lumps are cancer. The answer is no. But still, it is important to check with a doctor if something feels different. A Cancer Doctor may suggest a test like a mammogram to check what is going on inside. Women above the age of forty are often asked to go for regular checks even if they feel fine.
Breast cancer can be treated well if found early. Many women live long and healthy lives after treatment. That is why it is good to talk to a doctor if there are any changes in the breast.
Cervical Cancer
This type of cancer starts in the cervix. The cervix is the part that connects the lower part of the womb to the birth canal. Cervical cancer is mostly caused by a virus called HPV. This virus spreads from one person to another during close contact.
There is a test called a Pap test. This test helps find early signs of cancer. If changes are found early, the cancer can be stopped before it grows. There is also a vaccine that helps protect against the HPV virus.
Women may not feel any pain at first. But later, they may see blood when it is not time for their period. Some may feel pain during contact or in the lower part of the stomach. If this happens, it is good to speak to a doctor soon.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries. The ovaries are where a woman’s eggs are made. This cancer is sometimes called the silent one because it does not show clear signs in the beginning.
Women may feel full quickly after eating. Some may feel pain in the belly or need to use the toilet more often. These may not seem like serious signs. But if they keep happening, then they should not be ignored.
Many women ask why this cancer is so hard to find. The reason is that the signs are so common that people often think it is just gas or something small. That is why it is good to keep an eye on how the body feels. If something does not feel right, it is okay to speak to a Cancer Doctor.
Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer happens in the womb. It usually affects women who have stopped having their periods. But younger women can get it too.
The most common sign is bleeding that is not normal. Women who have already reached menopause and still see bleeding should talk to a doctor quickly. Pain in the lower belly or pain while peeing can also be signs.
Many times, this cancer is found early because of the bleeding. And if found early, it can be treated easily. This is why it is very important to take bleeding seriously even if it happens just once.
Vaginal Cancer
This cancer starts in the inside part of a woman’s private area. It is not very common, but it does happen. Women may notice bleeding that is not usual. Some may feel pain or a lump.
Just like cervical cancer, this cancer can also be linked to the HPV virus. It can happen more in women who are older. Doctors can find it during regular checkups. So going for those checkups even when there is no pain is helpful.
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer affects the outer part of a woman’s private area. It may look like a sore or cause itching that does not stop.
Some women feel burning or pain in that area. Others may see a change in the color of the skin. If a sore does not heal or there is a bump, it is better to have it checked.
Though it is not very common, it can be treated if found early. So even if the area is small, it is still important to pay attention.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is very common in both men and women. Women who spend a lot of time in the sun without any protection are more at risk.
It is good to look at the skin from time to time. New moles or changes in old moles should be shown to a doctor. Wearing sunscreen and covering the skin when the sun is very strong can help a lot.
Skin cancer can be treated well if it is found early. But it is often missed because people do not think much of a small mole or spot.
Colorectal Cancer
This cancer happens in the large intestine or the rectum. It is also called colon cancer.
Women may notice blood in their stool or changes in how often they use the toilet. Some may feel pain in the belly that does not go away.
Many people feel shy to talk about these signs. But it is better to talk than to hide it. Cancer Doctor may do a test like a colonoscopy to see inside and check for any problems.
Lung Cancer
This cancer starts in the lungs. It can happen to people who smoke but also to those who do not. Bad air, second-hand smoke, and pollution can also play a part.
Women may have a cough that stays for weeks. Some may feel pain in the chest or feel short of breath. If any of these signs stay for a long time, then it is good to get it checked.
Finding lung cancer early helps a lot. So do not wait if the cough is not going away.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer starts in the neck, where the thyroid gland is. This gland controls many things in the body like energy and mood.
Women may feel a small lump in the neck. Some may find it hard to swallow. Others may notice a change in voice.
Thyroid cancer is slow in many cases and can be treated well. If you feel something odd in the neck, do not ignore it. A simple scan can show if everything is fine.
Why Knowing These Cancers Matters
Some women do not talk about body problems. They may feel shy or think it is not important. But small signs can point to big problems if left alone.
By knowing the signs and going for regular checks, cancer can be found early. And when it is found early, it is easier to treat.
Dr Vikesh Shah always says that health starts with listening to the body. If something feels different, do not wait. Even if it is nothing, it is still better to know.
Can Cancer Be Prevented
Not all types of cancer can be stopped. But some steps can lower the chance.
Eating good food, staying active, not smoking, and going for regular checkups can help. There are also vaccines like the HPV shot that help prevent certain cancers.
Living a healthy life does not mean you will never get sick. But it means your body will be stronger and more ready to fight if something goes wrong.
Speak to a Cancer Doctor If You Are Worried
It is okay to have questions. It is okay to be scared. But do not let fear stop you from speaking up. A good Cancer Doctor will listen and help. No one should feel alone when it comes to health.
Dr Vikesh Shah and our team are here to help you understand your options. Contact us to learn more about immunotherapy and how it might help you or your loved one.