Cancer, Causes and Prevention

Cancer is an umbrella term for a wide range of diseases occurring due to abnormal cell activity, typically uncontrolled cellular growth (tumour) beginning at one point in the body, which happens rapidly and simultaneously, often spreading to other organs in a phenomenon known as "metastasis". Cancer cells have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal cells and body tissues.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, survival rates of Cancer are increasing day by day due to advancements in technology and research for cancer treatment. At Hinduja Hospital, we offer a comprehensive range of cancer diagnosis and treatment services in Mumbai using the latest technological equipment and top specialists and oncologists with vast experience in managing and treating cancer in patients of all ages.

Types of Cancer
Cancers may be named depending upon the place of origin in the body and the type of cells the tumour is made of. Therefore, cancer can manifest in various types, including:

• Bone cancer
• Lung cancer
• Skin cancer
• Liver cancer
• Leukaemia or bone marrow cancer
• Sarcoma or connective tissue cancer
• Appendix cancer
• Breast cancer
• Brain cancer
• Gallbladder cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Oral cancers
• Rectal cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Pancreatic cancer, etc.

Cancer Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of cancer may depend upon the part of the body affected by cancer and may be region-specific. There may be some general non-specific symptoms of cancer which may indicate the presence of cancer and may include the following:

• Fatigue
• Weight changes
• Appetite changes
• Changes in bowel movements
• A lump that can be seen or felt when touching the skin
• Sores that don't heal
• Changes in the skin

In addition to the above, there can also be persistent and unexplained muscle and joint pain, indigestion, fever, night sweats, bleeding, and bruising, as well as difficulty in breathing. Other potential symptoms include difficulty in swallowing or hoarseness in the voice when speaking. These are general signs that may indicate cancer, but they do not confirm its presence. It is crucial to seek a professional diagnosis from a doctor or best oncologist in Mumbai when such symptoms arise.

Causes of Cancer
Cancer may, most often, be caused by genetic mutations and changes in the DNA. Genetic mutations may be inherited or occur after birth due to several external factors known as "carcinogens." Carcinogens may include:

• Physical carcinogens, such as ultraviolet rays or radiation
• Chemical carcinogens, such as smoke from cigarettes, various chemicals, contaminated food and water, etc.
• Biological carcinogens, such as bacteria or viruses

Genetic mutations may cause cancer by transforming normal healthy cells to allow dividing rapidly, causing uncontrollable growth, forming masses called tumours. There may also be a mutation in the "tumour suppressor gene" of cancer cells, which can lead to the continuous growth and accumulation of cells. Sometimes, mutations may be inherited from parents, and such cancers may run in the family history.

Risk Factors
Through proper diagnosis, the cause of cancer may be found; however, there may be some factors that increase the likelihood of developing cancer due to genetic mutations. These risk factors may include:

• Lack of physical activity
• High alcohol consumption
• Tobacco usage
• Exposure to radiation
• Exposure to ultraviolet rays
• Air pollution and smoke
• Unhealthy diet, including processed foods, meats, excessive sugary or salty foods, refined carbohydrates, etc.
• Infection by viruses such as Hepatitis, Epstein Barr, HPV, HIV, etc.

Apart from these factors, age may also play an important role, as older people have a higher chance of being diagnosed with certain types of cancer, either due to lifelong exposure or other factors such as lifestyle habits, weakening of the immune system, etc. Although cancer may occur and be diagnosed at any age, people older than 65 years are more likely to be diagnosed with certain types of cancer.

Additionally, suffering from chronic health conditions such as ulcerative colitis may significantly increase the likelihood of developing certain cancers.

Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis of cancer may be done properly after symptoms develop. The diagnosis of cancer may include physical examinations, laboratory tests, imaging tests, and biopsies to locate and confirm the presence of cancer. At Hinduja Hospital, best treatment of cancer in Mumbai is performed according to the type of cancer, its severity and extent, as well as the overall health condition of the patient. Generally, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery are among the most widely used treatments for cancer. Additionally, there may be other treatment options for cancer that are recommended in conjunction with the primary cancer treatments.

Prevention of Cancer
Knowing the risk factors that may contribute to genetic mutations leading to cancer can be extremely important in reducing the chances of developing cancer.

To reduce the risk of cancer, it is advisable to:

• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as well as exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Minimise excessive exposure to the sun. Use sunscreen and sun protection measures like umbrellas and hats.
• Steer clear of tanning from the sun and tanning beds.
• Follow a healthy diet, which includes consuming fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, while limiting the intake of processed foods and red meats.
• Engage in regular exercise.
• Maintain a healthy weight and body mass index.
• Get vaccinated against viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis.

It may also be helpful to opt for regular cancer screening tests in Mumbai for the early detection of cancer. Certain cancers can be detected through cancer screenings, such as cervical and prostate cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. This may be especially recommended for those with a family history of a certain type of cancer.

The likelihood of developing cancer can be reduced if a healthy lifestyle is followed from a young age. However, cancer may not always be preventable or even detectable at an early stage. Therefore, following a healthy lifestyle, adhering to a doctor's instructions, and getting regular cancer screenings may be beneficial in the long run.

At Hinduja Hospital, we are dedicated to providing patient-centric, all-inclusive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and management for a wide range of cancer symptoms, management goals, and types of cancer in patients of all ages. Our highly experienced team of medical oncologists and neurosurgeons treat and cure cancer patients with utmost expertise and care. With the help of our state-of-the-art, high-end equipment for delivering various best cancer treatments in Mumbai, we offer comprehensive cancer care services, as well as rehabilitation care for optimal healing and cancer management.

FAQs

Q1. Is cancer preventable?
Ans. Certain types of cancers, such as cervical cancer, may be preventable in a number of ways, such as immunisation, following a healthy and reasonable lifestyle, and avoiding certain carcinogenic substances.

Q2. Which foods prevent cancer?
Ans. A plant-based diet low in processed sugars, excessive salts, and processed meat may be helpful in preventing cancer.

Q3. What are the main causes of cancer?
Ans. There are several factors that may contribute to cancer, including:

• Cigarette Smoking and Secondhand Smoke Exposure
• Exposure to the Sun and Tanning Beds
• Overweight and Obesity
• Excessive Alcohol Use
• Lifestyle habits