Understanding 2 most common types of Cancer in India

By Dr. Vikas Goswami 

As we all know that cancer is a dreaded disease. Even a pinch of doubt of cancer causes terror. But take heart today with such great advancements in technology most cancers are curable, if detected early. Below are the two most common type of cancer in India, let’s get to know few facts and get aware about it: 

1.  Lung Cancer   

Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide.   

Symptoms of developing lung cancer are  

• chronic cough,  
• blood in sputum,  
• change in voice, weight loss or 
• distant symptoms like bone pain or seizure etc.   

The most common cause of lung cancer are:       

• Passive Smoking,  
• Radon exposure  
• Environmental pollution,  
• Chulha cooking in villages  
• Genetic factors  

The numbers in India, lung cancer constitutes 6.9% of all new cancer cases and 9.3% of all cancer-related deaths in both sexes; it is the commonest cancer and cause of cancer-related mortality in men.

Target age group   

It occurs mainly in older people. About two out of three people diagnosed with lung cancer are 65 or older; less than 2% are younger than 45.   

Cut the Risk by

•  Quit smoking and reduce exposure to pollution 

2.  Breast Cancer 

A cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. By seeing the facts and figures of breast cancer patients, I would say that women often ignore their health and found to be not aware of early signs and symptoms of breast cancer. At this stage we need to educate women around us be it your mother, your wife, your daughter or any other female friend or relative. Please warn them and educate them to take care of themselves 

Symptoms of breast cancer are: 

• A lump in the breast – the most common first sign 
• Changes in breast shape or size 
• Skin changes: skin of the breast may become dimpled or puckered 
• Nipple changes: Normal nipples that suddenly become inverted 

What Causes Breast cancer?

• Sometimes there are hereditary cases where there is a family history of breast cancer 
• Women above 50 years of age are mostly at the risk, so your age could also be a factor. 
• Ladies in their premenopausal stage who administer contraception pills are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. 
• Now a days exposure to radiation or chemicals also leads to cancer 

Reduce the risk of breast cancer by: 

• Indulging yourself in household chores 
• Breastfeeding 
• Refrain yourself from alcohol 
• Avoid heating your food in plastics 
• Consumption of Vitamin D is important for women 

Fight cancer, stay fit.

Related Links: Lung Cancer, DNA