Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute
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Types of Cancer

what is cancer ?

Cancer is a group of diseases where abnormal cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably. These cells can invade nearby tissues and may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, disrupting normal body functions and threatening life.

Unlike normal cells, which grow, divide, and die in a controlled way, cancer cells continue to grow without stopping. They may form a lump (tumor), destroy healthy tissue, or travel through the blood or lymphatic system to form new tumors elsewhere in the body.

Why Does It Happen?

Cancer can happen for many reasons:

  • Smoking or tobacco

  • Too much sun without protection

  • Certain viruses (like HPV)

  • Unhealthy food and lifestyle

  • Family history (genes passed down)

Can It Be Treated?

Yes! Many cancers can be treated or even cured if found early. Common treatments include:

  • Surgery – cutting out the cancer

  • Medicine (Chemotherapy) – to kill cancer cells

  • Radiation – using powerful rays to destroy cancerImmunotherapy – helping your body’s own defense system fight cancer

     

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the bladder grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. The bladder is a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. Most bladder cancers begin in the urothelium — the inner lining of the bladder.

Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

The most common early sign is blood in the urine (hematuria) — it may appear pink, red, or cola-colored. Other symptoms include:

  • Frequent urination

  • Painful urination (burning or discomfort)

  • Urgent need to urinate even when the bladder isn’t full

  • Lower back pain (usually on one side)

  • Pelvic pain

Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing bladder cancer:

  • Smoking – The #1 risk factor; tobacco toxins pass through the bladder

  • Exposure to chemicals – Especially in industries like dye, rubber, leather, and paint

  • Age – Most common in people over 55

  • Gender – Men are more likely than women to develop bladder cancer

  • Chronic bladder infections or irritation – Including long-term catheter use

  • Personal or family history – Of bladder cancer or certain genetic syndromes

  • Previous cancer treatment – Radiation or certain chemotherapy drugs (like cyclophosphamide)

Prevention of Bladder Cancer

  • While not all cases are preventable, you can lower your risk by:

    • 🚭 Quitting smoking – Reduces bladder cancer risk dramatically

    • 💧 Staying hydrated – Drinking plenty of water may dilute harmful substances in the urine

    • 🧪 Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals – Especially in the workplace (use protective equipment)

    • 🥗 Eating a balanced diet – Rich in fruits and vegetables may support overall cell health

    • 🩺 Routine check-ups – Especially if you’re at higher risk due to occupation or family history

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What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer (also called renal cancer) begins in the kidneys – two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. Their main job is to filter waste from the blood and produce urine. When kidney cells begin to grow uncontrollably, they can form a tumor, leading to kidney cancer.

Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer can be “silent” in early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Blood in the urine (may appear pink, red, or dark brown)

  • Pain or pressure in the side or lower back

  • A lump or mass in the abdomen or flank area

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Fever not related to infection

  • Fatigue

  • Loss of appetite

  • Swelling in ankles or legs

📝 Note: These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. Don’t ignore them — seek medical advice early.

Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer

Several lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors may increase your risk:

  • Smoking – Doubles your risk

  • Obesity – Increases hormone levels that affect kidney cell growth

  • High blood pressure – Even if controlled by medication

  • Family history – Especially if a parent or sibling has had kidney cancer

  • Certain genetic conditions – e.g., von Hippel-Lindau disease

  • Long-term dialysis – For chronic kidney disease

  • Workplace exposure – To chemicals like asbestos or cadmium

Prevention of Kidney Cancer

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce your risk by making healthy choices:

    • 🚭 Quit smoking – It’s one of the biggest preventable risk factors

    • 🥦 Eat a healthy diet – Rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

    • 🧘 Stay active – Regular physical activity supports a healthy weight and blood pressure

    • 💊 Control blood pressure – With lifestyle or medications

    • 🚰 Stay hydrated – Helps kidneys flush out toxins

    • 🩺 Get regular checkups – Especially if you have risk factors or a family history

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon (large intestine) or rectum (the passage connecting the colon to the anus). It usually starts as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps, which can turn cancerous over time if left untreated.

Signs & Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms right away. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)

  • Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding

  • Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, or pain)

  • A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Weakness or fatigue

  • Iron-deficiency anemia

📝 Important: These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like infections or hemorrhoids. Don’t ignore persistent or unusual symptoms.

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer:

  • Age – Most common after age 50

  • Family history – Having close relatives with colorectal cancer or polyps

  • Personal history – Of polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease

  • Diet – High in red or processed meats and low in fiber

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Obesity

  • Smoking and alcohol use

  • Type 2 diabetes

Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is largely preventable through lifestyle changes and regular screenings. Here’s how to lower your risk:

  • 🥗 Eat a healthy diet – High in fiber, fruits, and vegetables; low in red/processed meats

  • 🏃‍♂️ Exercise regularly – Stay physically active to support colon health

  • 🚭 Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol – Both increase cancer risk

  • ⚖️ Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity is a known risk factor

  • 🩺 Get regular screenings – Colonoscopy can detect and remove polyps before they turn into cancer

  • 💉 Consider genetic counseling – If you have a strong family history

What is Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that begins in the gallbladder — a small, pear-shaped organ located under the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps the body digest fats. Gallbladder cancer often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage because it typically causes no symptoms in early stages.

Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer

Early-stage gallbladder cancer rarely shows symptoms. When they do occur, they can be vague and easily mistaken for other digestive problems:

  • Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Bloating or discomfort after eating

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

  • Unintended weight loss

  • Fever

  • Dark urine or pale stools

📝 Important: These symptoms can resemble gallstones or liver disease. Any persistent discomfort should be medically evaluated.

Risk Factors for Gallbladder Cancer

Several factors may increase your risk of developing gallbladder cancer:

  • Gallstones – The most common risk factor; long-standing gallstones irritate the gallbladder lining

  • Chronic gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)

  • Gallbladder polyps

  • Older age – Most common in people over 60

  • Female gender – Women are more likely to develop gallbladder cancer

  • Obesity

  • Family history of gallbladder disease or cancer

  • Porcelain gallbladder – A condition where the gallbladder wall becomes calcified

  • Infections – Such as chronic Salmonella or Helicobacter infections

Prevention of Gallbladder Cancer

While gallbladder cancer cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

  • 🍽️ Maintaining a healthy diet – Rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

  • ⚖️ Achieving a healthy weight – Obesity is a known risk factor

  • 🩺 Managing gallstones – Consider medical or surgical treatment if you have recurrent issues

  • 🚭 Avoiding tobacco use

  • 🧪 Getting regular checkups – Especially if you have a history of gallbladder issues or a family history of cancer

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer develops in one or both testicles (also called testes), the male reproductive glands located inside the scrotum. These glands produce sperm and the hormone testosterone.

Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Symptoms often develop quickly and are usually noticed by the patient. Common signs include:

  • A lump or swelling in either testicle

  • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

  • Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin

  • Sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum

  • Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum

  • Breast tenderness or growth (due to hormonal changes)

  • Back pain (if cancer has spread)

📝 Note: A painless lump is the most common early sign. Any changes should be evaluated promptly by a doctor.

Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer

Certain factors may increase your risk:

  • Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) – Strongest known risk factor

  • Family history – Father or brother with testicular cancer

  • Age – Most common in men between 15 and 35

  • Race & ethnicity – More common in Caucasian men

  • HIV infection

  • Personal history – Having had testicular cancer in one testicle raises the risk for the other

Prevention of Testicular Cancer

There is no guaranteed way to prevent testicular cancer, but some steps can help with early detection and risk reduction:

  1. Self-examination
    Regular testicular self-exams can help detect changes early when the disease is most treatable.

  2. Awareness of family history
    Men with a family history should discuss risk and screening options with their doctor.

  3. Prompt medical attention
    See a healthcare provider if you notice any unusual lumps, swelling, or pain in the testicles.

  4. Healthy lifestyle choices
    While not proven to prevent testicular cancer, general healthy habits (balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco) support overall well-being and early detection of abnormalities.

What is Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and Neck Cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, nose, throat, larynx (voice box), sinuses, salivary glands, and other related areas in the head and neck region. Most head and neck cancers begin in the squamous cells that line the moist surfaces of these areas and are called squamous cell carcinomas.

General Signs and Symptoms

  • A lump or sore that does not heal

  • Persistent pain in the mouth, throat, or face

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Fatigue or general weakness

  • Swelling or mass in the neck, face, or jaw

  • Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue

Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer

Several lifestyle and environmental factors can increase the risk of developing head and neck cancers:

  1. Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco)

    • The single biggest risk factor

  2. Alcohol consumption

    • Heavy alcohol use significantly increases risk, especially when combined with tobacco use

  3. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

    • Linked particularly to oropharyngeal cancers (throat, tonsils, and base of tongue)

  4. Poor oral hygiene

Prevention of Head and Neck Cancer

While not all cases are preventable, many head and neck cancers can be significantly reduced through lifestyle changes:

  1. Avoid tobacco and alcohol

    • Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

  2. Get vaccinated against HPV

    • HPV vaccines can reduce the risk of HPV-related head and neck cancers

  3. Protect yourself from excessive sun exposure

    • Use sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and hats when outdoors

  4. Maintain good oral hygiene

    • Brush and floss daily, and see a dentist regularly

  5. Eat a healthy, balanced diet

    • High in fruits and vegetables

What is Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus — the long, hollow tube that carries food and liquid from your throat to your stomach. It usually begins in the inner lining (mucosa) of the esophagus and can spread outward through the layers.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Symptoms may develop gradually and can include:

    • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) – often the first and most common symptom

    • Unintended weight loss

    • Chest pain or discomfort, especially behind the breastbone

    • Persistent heartburn or indigestion

    • Chronic cough or hoarseness

    • Regurgitation of food or saliva

    • Feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or chest

    • Vomiting (sometimes with blood in advanced stages)

    🔔 Early esophageal cancer may not cause symptoms. That’s why being aware of risks and reporting swallowing problems early is important.

Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer

Several factors increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer:

  1. Tobacco use – smoking or chewing tobacco

  2. Heavy alcohol use – especially with tobacco

  3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – chronic acid reflux

  4. Barrett’s esophagus – a condition caused by long-term GERD that can lead to adenocarcinoma

  5. Obesity – increases the risk of GERD and adenocarcinoma

  6. Diet low in fruits and vegetables

  7. Drinking very hot liquids – repeatedly over time

  8. Human papillomavirus (HPV) – linked to some esophageal squamous cell carcinomas

  9. Age – more common in people over 50

  10. Gender – men are more likely than women to develop it

  11. Family history of esophageal cancer

Prevention of Esophageal Cancer

While you can’t always prevent esophageal cancer, you can reduce your risk significantly:

  1. Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products

  2. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption

  3. Maintain a healthy weight

  4. Manage acid reflux (GERD) with lifestyle changes or medication

  5. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

  6. Treat Barrett’s esophagus if diagnosed (may require regular monitoring)

  7. Avoid very hot drinks on a regular basis

  8. Get vaccinated for HPV (especially in younger individuals)

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Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute