Which Cancer Is Most Common in India: Cancer is considered one of the most serious diseases in the world. According to Cancer Research UK, there are more than 200 types of cancer, which are divided into five main categories based on the cells in which they begin. Carcinoma starts in the skin or lining of internal organs. Sarcoma is attached to supporting tissues such as bone, muscle, fat or blood vessels. Leukemia starts in the blood-forming tissue, especially the bone marrow, and affects white blood cells. Lymphoma and myeloma are linked to cells of the immune system. Whereas cancer related to brain and spinal cord is called cancer of the central nervous system.
Which cancers are most prevalent in India at present?
Many special types of cancer are also included within these categories. On February 9, in MHB Bytes Podcast, Dr. Jayesh Sharma, senior surgical oncologist from Raipur, told which cancers are being seen most in India at present. Dr. Sharma, with 25 years of experience, said that a few years ago, cervical cancer was the most common disease among women and breast cancer was in second place. But now breast cancer is being found most commonly in women as well as men. Changing lifestyle, increasing age and lack of breastfeeding are believed to be the reasons behind this change.
There is also a risk of these cancers
Presently mouth cancer is in second place, which is mainly related to the habit of chewing tobacco. Cervical and lung cancer are almost tied for third and fourth place, while colon cancer is at fifth place. The risk of breast cancer increases with aging, obesity, menopause, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption and family history. Timely detection, self-examination and mammography can save lives. Cervical cancer is mostly associated with HPV infection and is largely preventable through vaccination and regular screening.
Mouth cancer is deeply linked to tobacco habits like smoking and gutkha consumption. The main reason for this in India is the prevalence of chewing tobacco. Lung cancer is mainly caused by smoking. At the same time, cases of colon cancer are increasing in urban India, which is linked to low fiber diet, more processed meat, obesity, lack of physical activity and metabolic problems.
What do experts say
Dr. Sharma says that cancer is not a completely sudden disease. In this, along with genetic reasons, the role of lifestyle and environment is also important. Conditions such as tobacco use, obesity, alcohol, low physical activity, unbalanced diet and chronic inflammation increase the risk.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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