What are the most common cancers, symptoms and causes

List of Cancer diseases in India

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small gland present in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, particularly in older men.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Age: Prostate cancer is more common in aged men, with the risk constantly increasing with age.
• Family History: Having a family history of prostate cancer increases the risk.
• Race/Ethnicity: Prostate cancer occurs more frequently in African-American men and less frequently in Asian-American and Hispanic/Latino men.
• Genetics: Certain genetic mutations or inherited gene changes may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Some studies suggest that factors such as a diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy products and obesity may be associated with an increased risk.

Symptoms:

• Early-stage prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms.
• In advanced stages Symptoms may include difficulty urinating, weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, and bone pain.

Pancreas Cancer

The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion and hormone regulation. The pancreas is located behind the lower abdomen. It produces enzymes that help digest food and hormones that help manage blood sugar.Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer often progresses rapidly and is challenging to detect in its early stages, leading to a poorer prognosis compared to some other cancers.

Myeloma

What is myeloma?

Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer that originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. These abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably, crowding out healthy blood cells and impairing the bone marrow’s ability to produce normal blood cells. Myeloma can lead to bone damage, weakened immune system, anemia, and kidney problems.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is typically associated with smoking and can cause symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. There are two types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Diagnosis involves imaging tests and biopsies, and treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Preventive measures include quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to carcinogens.

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the immune system. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes (small, bean-shaped structures that produce and store infection-fighting cells), the spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. Lymphoma primarily affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in your lymph system, which is part of the body’s immune system that fights germs. It involves the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. NHL is characterized by the presence of cancerous lymphocytes in lymph nodes, bone marrow, and other organs. (B.Symptoms) may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats. . Prognosis depends on factors such as NHL subtype, stage, and response to treatment.

Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It’s characterized by the presence of abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells in the lymph nodes. HL typically starts in a single lymph node or group of lymph nodes before spreading to other parts of the body. Symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, night sweats, and itching. Treatment often involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Prognosis depends on factors such as stage, subtype, and response to treatment.

Squamous cell carcinoma – SKIN CANCERS

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer arising from squamous epithelium. It’s typically caused by sun exposure and appears as red nodules, scaly patches, or persistent sores on sun-exposed areas. Diagnosis involves a skin biopsy, and treatment includes surgical removal, Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, or topical medications. Prognosis is generally good if detected and treated early but may worsen if left untreated or if it spreads. Preventive measures are sun protection and regular skin examinations.

Human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Some types cause genital warts, while others can lead to various cancers. Prevention includes vaccination, safe sex practices, and regular screening. Treatment options depend on symptoms and may include topical medications, surgical removal, or cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. WHO has set a target of 2040 to eradicate cervical cancer by promoting vaccination in teen girls between 9-15 years.

Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma is a rare but aggressive cancer that originates in the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. It’s often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment challenging. Symptoms can  include jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss, and itching. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Prognosis depends on factors such as the cancer’s stage, location, and response to treatment. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, but cholangiocarcinoma is often diagnosed late.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. It’s often associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Melanoma can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the eyes and mucous membranes. It’s characterized by the development of abnormal moles or lesions that may change in size, shape, or color. Treatment options include surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Preventive measures are sun protection and regular skin examinations.

Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It results in the abnormal production of white blood cells, which affects the body’s ability to fight infections. Leukemia can be acute or chronic and is classified based on the type of white blood cell affected (lymphocytes or myeloid cells). Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent infections. Treatments are mainly chemotherapy,assisted by radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplant. Prognosis varies depending on factors such as the type of leukemia, stage, and response to treatment.

Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of brain cancer that originates in the brain’s supportive tissue glial cells. It’s characterized by fast-growing tumors that infiltrate nearby brain tissue, making complete surgical removal difficult in few to many cases. Symptoms vary depending on tumor location but may include headaches, seizures, changes in mood or cognition, and neurological deficits. Treatment involves surgery, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy , glioblastoma has a poor prognosis, with a median survival of about 12 to 15 months. Ongoing research aims to develop more effective treatments for this challenging disease.Nerve treatment techniques like Tumor treating fields,novel therapeutic,particle radiation therapy improves response rate and survival.

Esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the food pipe, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It’s a relatively uncommon cancer in comparison to other types, but it can be quite aggressive. Symptoms of esophageal cancer may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), unintentional weight loss, chest pain or discomfort, and persistent indigestion or heartburn. Unfortunately, esophageal cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when symptoms become noticeable, which can make it more difficult to treat.

Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer,known as gastric cancer,is a type of cancer that begins in the inner stomach lining.it often develops slowly over many years and is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage to subtle early symptoms.Treatment options have evolved with newer forms of chemotherapy and better surgical techniques.

Ovarian cancer

Description of ovarian cancer: ovarian cancer starts from different cells in the ovary.In young / adolescence it starts from germ cells or the stroma cells.In adults or older women,it starts in the epithelial or the surface cells.Treatment options include surgery and chemotherapy.

The stage indicates the size of the tumor and whether the cancer cells have spread to

other parts of the body. Ovarian cancer has four stages:stage I – Initial level. Cancer cells are found in one or both ovaries.

Stage II – Cancer is found in the pelvis.

Stage III – Cancer cells have spread to the abdomen.

Level IV – The most advanced level. Cancer has spread beyond the stomach to other parts of the body, such as the lungs.

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer.

If you have any of the following symptoms, especially for more than 12 days per month:

• Bloating or increased abdominal size
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Urinary symptoms (frequency and urgency) Other symptoms include vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, and change in bowel habits. Having these symptoms doesn’t mean you have ovarian cancer, but it’s good to find out what’s causing it.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that originates in the breast tissue. While it primarily affects women, men can also develop this condition, albeit at a significantly lower rate.

• Breast Lump or Thickening: A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area.
• Change in Breast Size or Shape: Any noticeable change in the size or shape of the breast.
• Breast Pain or Discomfort: Persistent breast pain or discomfort that is not related to the menstrual cycle.
• Changes in the Skin of the Breast: Such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling of the breast skin.
• Nipple Changes: Such as nipple retraction (turning inward), nipple discharge (other than breast milk), or changes in nipple appearance.
• Swelling of Part of the Breast: Even if there is no distinct lump felt.
• Axillary (Underarm) Lymph Node Swelling: Enlarged lymph nodes under the arm.
• Persistent Breast Swelling or Irritation: Especially if only on one side.
• Breast or Nipple Pain: Especially if persistent and unusual.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Often associated with advanced breast cancer.
• Lumps and bumps in the neck / shoulder region.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than breast cancer. However, if you notice any persistent changes in your breasts or experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes for breast cancer.

A mammogram is an X-ray imaging technique used to screen for and diagnose breast cancer. It involves compressing the breast between two plates to take clear X-ray images of the breast tissue.

Mammogram Purpose:

• Screening: To detect breast cancer early in women without symptoms.
• Diagnostic: To investigate lumps, pain, or other breast symptoms.

Procedure:

• The breast is placed on a flat surface and compressed with a paddle.
• X-ray images are taken from different angles.
• The process is usually quick, lasting about 20 minutes.

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It’s primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV).Cervical cancer develops in a woman’s cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina). Almost all  the cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact.

Oral cancer

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat (pharynx). Here are key points about oral cancer:

1. Types: The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which arises from the flat cells lining the mouth and throat. Other less common types include adenocarcinomas, which originate from glandular cells.
2. Risk Factors: Significant risk factors include tobacco use (smoking and smokeless tobacco), heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, excessive sun exposure (for lip cancer), a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and a history of oral cancer.
3. Symptoms: Early signs may include a persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal, a lump or thickening in the cheek, a white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth, difficulty chewing or swallowing, numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth, and a sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat.

Bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, which is the organ in the pelvis that stores urine. It typically starts in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. However, bladder cancer can also develop in other types of cells in the bladder, such as squamous cells or glandular cells, though these are less common.

Here are some key points about bladder cancer:

1. Types: The most common type of bladder cancer is transitional cell carcinoma, which starts in the cells lining the inside of the bladder. Other types are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
2. Risk Factors: Risk factors for bladder cancer include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, such as those used in the manufacturing of rubber, textiles, and paints, older age, male gender, a history of chronic bladder inflammation or infections, and certain genetic factors.
3. Symptoms: Symptoms of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine (hematuria), frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, lower back pain, and pelvic pain.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. This cancer typically begins in the cells of the thyroid gland and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated.

Some key points about thyroid cancer:

1. Types: There are several types of thyroid cancer, including papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular thyroid carcinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Papillary and follicular thyroid carcinomas are the most common types, while medullary and anaplastic carcinomas are less common but tend to be more aggressive.
2. Risk Factors: Risk factors for thyroid cancer include a family history of thyroid cancer or other thyroid conditions, exposure to radiation, especially during childhood, certain genetic conditions such as familial medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes, and being female.
3. Symptoms: Thyroid cancer can not cause any symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows, it may cause symptoms such as a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, persistent cough not related to a cold, and changes in voice.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is the most common type of uterine cancer and typically affects women after menopause, although it can occur at any age. Endometrial cancer often causes abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or a mass or lump in the pelvic area. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the uterus and sometimes other affected tissues, along with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis for endometrial cancer.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys, the bean-shaped organs located near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage. Kidney cancer most often affects adults and is usually detected in people aged 50 to 70 years old.

There are several types of kidney cancer, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common. Other less common types include transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms tumor (typically found in children), and renal sarcoma.

The exact cause of kidney cancer is often unknown, but risk factors may include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, family history of kidney cancer, and certain genetic conditions.

Symptoms of kidney cancer may include blood in the urine, persistent back pain just below the ribs, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and fever that persists for an extended period.

Liver cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the liver, an organ located in the upper right area of the abdomen. There are several types of liver cancer, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most common. Other types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and hepatoblastoma (more common in children).

Risk factors for liver cancer include chronic infection with hepatitis B or C viruses, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, diabetes, exposure to aflatoxins (toxins produced by mold), and certain genetic conditions.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the testicles, which are part of the male reproductive system. Testicular cancer usually begins in the germ cells, which are responsible for producing sperm. It is one of the less common types of cancer but is most frequently diagnosed in younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 40.

There are two types of testicular cancer:

1. Seminoma: This type of testicular cancer tends to grow slowly and is more sensitive to radiation therapy. It usually affects men between the ages of 30 and 55.
2. Non-seminoma: Non-seminoma tumors often grow more quickly and are more likely to spread to other parts of the body. This type of cancer usually affects younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 35.

Risk factors for testicular cancer include having a family history of the disease, having an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism), having had testicular cancer in the other testicle previously, and certain genetic conditions.

Symptoms of testicular cancer may include a lump or swelling in one of the testicles, pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, and enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.

CNS (Central Nervous System) tumor

A CNS (Central Nervous System) tumor is a type of abnormal growth or mass that develops within the brain or spinal cord. These tumors can arise from various types of cells within the CNS, including neurons, glial cells (such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells), and other supporting tissues.

There are two main categories of CNS tumors:

1. Primary CNS tumors: These tumors originate within the brain or spinal cord and can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Examples include gliomas (such as astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas), meningiomas, medulloblastomas, and schwannomas.
2. Secondary CNS tumors: Also known as metastatic or secondary brain tumors, these tumors originate from cancer cells that have spread (metastasized) to the brain or spinal cord from cancer elsewhere in the body, such as the lungs, breasts, or skin.

Symptoms of CNS tumors can vary depending on the size, location, and type of tumor, but common symptoms may include headaches, seizures, changes in vision or hearing, weakness or numbness in the limbs, difficulty with balance or coordination, cognitive or behavioral changes, and nausea or vomiting.

Pediatric cancers refer to a group of cancers that affect children and adolescents. Although relatively rare, pediatric cancers differ significantly from adult cancers in terms of their types, development, and treatment.

Colon Cancer

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It’s a crucial tool for diagnosing and treating various conditions affecting the colon, including colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), and other gastrointestinal problems.

During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and guided through the entire length of the colon. The colonoscope has a small camera and light attached to its tip, allowing the doctor (usually a gastroenterologist) to visualize the inner lining of the colon on a monitor in real-time.

Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It includes drugs like checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and CAR T-cell therapy. Immunotherapy is used across various cancers and stages, with some patients experiencing long-term remission. Side effects, called immune-related adverse events, can occur but are manageable. Ongoing research focuses on improving effectiveness and exploring combination therapies.

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