Cancer: What You Should Know – Featuring Dr C. Sai Ram

On the occasion of World Cancer Day, our Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Dr. C Sai Ram, speaks about everything one needs to understand about Cancer. Watch the full video and keep yourself informed.

Which group of persons are at the highest risk of getting cancer?

The elderly/geriatric population are at the highest risk of developing cancers. If someone of this demographic presents to us with a lump, the chances of that lump being malignant is 1 in 3. In the paediatric population, when a person has a lump, the chances of malignancy are 1 in 7. Cancers are the 2nd most common cause of death in the world and in some countries, it is actually the most common cause of death.

How does cancer start?

Cancer starts on a cellular level. Cell mutations resulting in the cell being unable to serve its function, for example, salivary gland cells which are supposed to produce saliva, may mutate and stop its function of saliva production. The mutated cells then multiply and cause other cells to mutate. These cells multiply more rapidly than normal cells, so the spread is quite fast. Over a period of time, the cells, now mutated, starts to lose its typical cell architecture and becomes more virulent.

Is cancer contagious?

Most cancers are not contagious. Some cancers like cervical cancer can be spread among women who share the same sexual partner, but generally speaking, most cancers are not contagious.

Are there any vaccines available to prevent cancer?

There are many vaccines available today to prevent cancer, like the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine which prevent cervical cancers as well as the hepatitis B vaccine. Other vaccine trials are ongoing for prostate and other types of cancers, but only these two are confirmed for preventing specific types of cancers.

What are the most common types of cancer in India?

Lung, breast, cervical and gastrointestinal cancers are the most common in the world and even more so in India. For example in cervical cancers, India has 1/5 of the world’s cervical cancer cases.

Is cancer more prevalent among men or women?

The latest statistics show that cancer is more prevalent among men, than women. This doesn’t mean that we should throw caution to the wind. Anyone can develop cancer no matter your sex, or age.

What are the most common symptoms of cancer?

In the earlier stages, symptoms do not usually appear. This is why screening is essential. By the time some women are diagnosed with breast cancer, for example, the level is usually as advanced as stage 3, or 4, that is, without prior screening. The cancers will be in a more advanced stage, when the signs and symptoms manifest themselves. I encourage women over the age of 45 to get mammo sonography done. We shouldn’t wait for signs and symptoms to develop. If we are able to diagnose earlier (at stage 1 level), the chance of a full recovery are at about 90%. Screening is the key.

What is the difference between a tumour and a cancer?

A tumour is any growth even a mole or a birthmark are examples of tumours. Tumours can be either benign or malignant. It is malignant tumours that are harmful.

Is cancer a curable disease?

In most countries, there is an approximation of about 80% curability rate in cancer. Vaccination and screening for early diagnosis are very important. Avoid tobacco and alcohol, colouring agents, pollutants and carcinogens.