World Cancer Day: February 4 is observed as World Cancer Day across the world. It aims to educate and guide people about early detection, prevention and treatment of cancer. The Union for International Cancer Control launched this initiative to promote and campaign for the goals of the 2008 World Cancer Declaration.
There are many different types of cancer, so different colors and symbols are used to identify each type and encourage research into ways to prevent it. For example, orange ribbons are used to raise cancer awareness among youth, but pink ribbons are used to promote breast cancer awareness around the world. The American Cancer Society uses the daffodil flower as a representation of hope for patients and survivors of this deadly disease.
“Based on cancer registry data, it is estimated that there will be approximately 800,000 new cancer cases in India each year. This burden is expected to be 3 times the current burden of approximately 240,000 cases at any given time. Cancer sites associated with tobacco range from 35 to 50% of all cancers in men and about 17% in women,” as stated on the Cancer Prevention and Control in India website.
Dr. Rukaya Ahmed Mir, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi shared with Zee News Digital an insight on the most common types of cancer in India and their symptoms.
Discussed here are the 3 most common cancers in India with symptoms:
lung cancer
Symptoms include a cough that does not go away, chest pain, weight loss and wheezing. To reduce your risk of lung cancer, quit smoking, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, and maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Breast Cancer
Symptoms include a lump in the breast, a change in the size or shape of the breast, and discharge from the nipple. To reduce the risk of breast cancer, maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Getting regular breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, is also important.
cervical cancer
Symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and vaginal discharge. To reduce the risk of cervical cancer, it is important to have regular Pap tests and the HPV vaccine. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
In general, it is always recommended to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms or changes in your health. Early detection and treatment can improve the outcome of many cancers.