Cancer, What Exactly Is It?

Cancer is a huge term and we hear a lot about it nowadays. As per a survey done in the year 2020 around 1,392,179 Indians suffered from it.

4th February is celebrated as cancer awareness day, to prevent further complications and mortality rates. Let’s understand how we can move one step forward for the prevention of it.

What is cancer?

When some of the body cells grow uncontrollably and spread anywhere in the body, the condition is called Cancer. 

Types 

There are more than 100 types of cancer that exist. The most common types of cancers are breast, prostate, lungs, and colon.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of it depend on the affected area or type. 

But the common symptoms are 

• Fatigue
• Lymph Node with pain and swelling
• Weight loss
• Yellowish or reddish discoloration of the skin
• A frequent episode of fever
• Generalized body pain, or muscle pain
• Changes in the bowel habits
• Indigestion
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Persistent cough

Risk factors

Age – It can be developed at any age. But cells of cancer grow slowly, hence it’s mostly found in the age group after 50.

Family history – In some cases, it can be inherited. If you have a strong history of it running in the family, you have a chance of getting it, due to genetic mutation.

Lifestyle – If you smoke or drink excessive alcohol, it can impact your health and may lead to carcinoma.

Harmful chemicals – If you are exposed to the hazardous chemical frequently there are chances of you may get it. Passive smoking is more dangerous than active smoking.

Chronic illness – Some chronic illnesses like colitis can take you that way.

Why is the cancer rate lower in India than in other countries?

Australia has the highest rate of cancer followed by New Zealand and America. India has a comparatively low rate.

Main reason behind is “Indian Dietary Habits”, spices we use have antioxidants and antibacterial properties, and the best example of it is Turmeric.

Not only this but 40% of Indians are consuming only a plant based diet, and the remaining who are consuming meat or fish are taking it in very low quantities as compared to other countries.

Preparation of non vegetarian food, which includes proper marination and fully cooked food material helps us to keep healthy.

India is the biggest country in farming, and largest production and consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables and pulses, which provides large amounts of antioxidants.

When to see a doctor?

If you find any abnormal symptoms or if any query regarding your health knocks in your mind, have yourself investigated by your physician.

Conclusion

• The statistics of cancer are lower in India than in other countries, but that can change at any time. 
• Concentrate on your health, build healthy habits.
• Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Observe yourself for any abnormal change.
• Remember early diagnosis is a way to better treatment.

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