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Signs - Symptoms and Risk Factors

 

Signs And Symptoms

Manage Cancer Risks

Breast Cancer

Cervical Cancer

       

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

1. A mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than 3 weeks

2. A cough or croaky voice that lasts longer than 3 weeks

3. Continued difficulty swallowing or indigestion

4. Breathlessness

5. Coughing up blood

6. Changes in the size, shape or feel of your breasts

7. Any lump, dimpling or redness of the skin on your breasts

8. Changes in the position of the nipple, a rash or nipple discharge

9. Bleeding from the vagina after sex, between periods or after the menopause

10. Poor bowel motion often for 4-6 weeks or more

11. Blood in your urine

12. Problems in urination

13. A change in the size, shape or colour of a mole

14. An unexplained pain or ache that lasts longer than 4 weeks

15. An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body

16. Unexplained weight loss or heavy night sweats

17. A sore that won’t heal after several weeks. 

RISK FACTORS FOR CAUSES FOR CANCER 

The exact reason for the transformation of normal to cancerous cells, ie specific cause for many cancers is still unknown. Both environmental and genetic factors have been implicated. Common environmental factors include.

 

Tobacco

35%

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Diet

30%

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Sex and Reproduction

25%

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Pollution

4.5%

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Ionizing Radiation

3%

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Infections

2%

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Occupation

2%

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MANAGE CANCER RISKS

1. Overview 

Cancer prevention is action taken to lower the risk of getting cancer. This can include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances, and taking medicines or vaccines that can prevent cancer from developing. 

2. Risk Factors for Cancer

It is usually not possible to know exactly why one person develops cancer and another doesn’t. But research has shown that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing cancer. (There are also factors that are linked to a lower risk of cancer. These are sometimes called protective risk factors, or just protective factors). Most cancer risk and protective factors are initially identified in epidemiology studies. These studies may show that the people who develop cancer are more or less likely to behave in certain ways or to be exposed to certain substances than those who do not develop cancer. When many studies all point to a similar association between a potential risk factor and an increased risk of cancer, and when a possible mechanism exists that could explain how the risk factor could actually cause cancer, scientists can be more confident about the relationship between the two.  

2.1. Tobacco Related Cancers

Sites of cancer that have been associated with the use of tobacco (tobacco related cancersTRC's) include lip, tongue, Mouth, pharynx, (including oropharynx and hypopharynx),oesophagus, larynx, lung and urinary bladder.

These Tobacco related proportions vary from 34.6% in Males to 14.6% in Females. Cancers of Lung, oesophagus and the tongue mainly contribute to tobacco related cancers in males; the cancers of Oesophagus, Mouth and Lung are predominant in TRC in females. Among tobacco related cancers, cancer incidence is higher in males than females.  

Sites

Males

Females

%

AAR

%

AAR

Lip

0.3

0.14

0.9

0.18

Tongue

12.1

4.82

6.6

1.45

Mouth

10.7

4.25

28.5

6.39

Oth.Oropharynx

2.7

1.21

0.6

0.14

Hypopharynx

10

4.48

4.3

0.85

Pharynx Uns

2.3

1

1.7

0.37

Oesophagus

18.6

8.37

28.9

6.56

Larynx

9.1

4.08

2.4

0.53

Lung

25.1

11.55

21.1

4.65

Urinary Bladder

7.8

3.68

5

1.17

Tobacco related Cancer

100

43.59

100

22.29

2.2. Diet

Extensive research in the past decade has revealed cancer to be a multigenic disease caused by perturbation of multiple cell signalling pathways and dysregulation of numerous gene products, all of which have been linked to inflammation. It is also becoming evident that various lifestyle factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, diet, environmental pollution, radiation and infections, can cause chronic inflammation and lead to tumourigenesis. Chronic diseases caused by ongoing inflammation therefore require chronic, not acute, treatment. Nutraceuticals, compounds derived from fruits, vegetables, spices and cereals, can be used chronically. This study discusses the molecular targets of some nutraceuticals that happen to be markers of chronic inflammation and how they can prevent or treat cancer. These naturally-occurring agents in the diet have great potential as anti-cancer drugs, thus proving Hippocrates, who proclaimed 25 centuries ago, 'Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food'. 

2.3. Acrylamide

Acrylamide is a chemical found in tobacco smoke and some foods. It can be produced when certain vegetables, such as potatoes, are heated to high temperatures. Studies in animal models have found that acrylamide exposure increases the risk for several types of cancer. However, there is no consistent evidence that dietary acrylamide exposure is associated with the risk of any type of cancer in humans.  

2.4. Antioxidants

Antioxidants are chemicals that block the activity of other chemicals, known as free radicals, that may damage cells. Laboratory and animal research has shown that exogenous antioxidants can help prevent the free radical damage associated with the development of cancer, but research in humans has not demonstrated convincingly that taking antioxidant supplements can help reduce the risk of developing or dying from cancer. Some studies have even shown an increased risk of some cancers.  

2.5.Artificial sweeteners

Studies have been conducted on the safety of several artificial sweeteners, including saccharin, aspartame, acesulfame potassium, sucralose, neotame, and cyclamate. There is no clear evidence that the artificial sweeteners available commercially in the United States are associated with cancer risk in humans. 

2.6. Calcium

Calcium is an essential dietary mineral that can be obtained from food and supplements. Research results overall support a relationship between higher intakes of calcium and reduced risks of colorectal cancer, but the results of studies have not always been consistent. 

2.7.Fluoride

Fluoride in water helps to prevent and can even reverse tooth decay. Many studies, in both humans and animals, have shown no association between fluoridated water and cancer risk. 

2.8. Alcohol

According to studies, Alcohol Consummation can increase  risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx (voice box), liver, and breast. The more you drink, the higher your risk. The risk of cancer is much higher for those who drink alcohol and also use tobacco. 

2.9. Garlic

Some studies have suggested that garlic consumption may reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer, especially cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. However, the evidence is not definitive.  

2.10. Tea

Tea contains polyphenol compounds, particularly catechins, which are antioxidants. Results of epidemiologic studies examining the association between tea consumption and cancer risk have been inconclusive. Few clinical trials of tea consumption and cancer prevention have been conducted and their results have also been inconclusive. 

2.11 Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps the body use calcium and phosphorus to make strong bones and teeth. It is obtained primarily through exposure of the skin to sunlight, but it can also be obtained from some foods and dietary supplements. Epidemiologic studies in humans have suggested that higher intakes of vitamin D or higher levels of vitamin D in the blood may be associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, but the results of randomized studies have been inconclusive. 

2.12. Age

The Peak age Group at diagnosis was 60-64 years in males and 45-49 years for females.

Age Group

Males

Female

Total

%

%

%

0-4

2.1

1.2

1.6

9-May

2.2

1

1.5

14-Oct

1.8

1.3

1.5

15-19

2

1

1.4

20-24

1.8

1.6

1.7

25-29

2.5

3.2

2.9

30-34

3.7

5

4.4

35-39

5.1

8.1

6.8

40-44

6.6

9.8

8.4

45-49

9.2

14.7

12.2

50-54

12.4

13.3

12.9

55-59

12.4

11.8

12.1

60-64

13.3

10.7

11.9

65-69

11.1

8.3

9.5

70-74

7.6

5.3

6.3

75+

6.1

3.6

4.7

Total

100

100

100

2.13 LIFE STYLE

Occupation, Habits, Diet, Hygiene, Stress

2.14. Inheritance

Genes, Cancer families 

2.15 General  Signs and Symptoms of cancers

1.  A mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than 3 weeks

2.  A cough or hoarseness of voice that lasts longer than 3 weeks

3.  Difficulty in swallowing

4.  Frequent Indigestion

5.  Breathlessness

6.  Coughing up blood

7.  Changes in the size, shape or feel of the breasts

8.  Any lump, dimpling or redness of the skin on the breasts

9.  Changes in the position of the nipple, a rash or nipple discharge

10. Bleeding from the vagina after sex, between periods or after the menopause

11. Irregular or poor bowel movement /blood in stools /black stools

12. Problems in urination like pain, blood, burning sensation

13. A change in the size, shape or colour of a mole or wart

14. Repeated unexplained pain anywhere in the body

15. An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on the body

16. Unexplained weight loss or heavy night sweats

17. A sore that does not heal even after several weeks.

18. Unexplained fever for long period. 

     

BREAST CANCER 

What You Need to Know

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer starts in the breast, it is called breast cancer. Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in urban women. Breast cancer screening means checking a woman’s breasts for cancer before she exhibits any symptoms. A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Most women who are 50 to 74 years old should have a screening mammogram every two years. If you are 40 to 49 years old, or think you may have a higher risk of breast cancer, ask your doctor when to have a screening mammogram. The Breast Cancer being the Commonest cancer in women all most of all urban Registries of India, about more than 1 lakhs Breast Cancer incidence projected for the year 2015.

3.1. Some things may increase your risk

1. If you have risk factors, you may be more likely to get breast cancer.

2. Talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk and about screening.

3.2. Reproductive risk factors

1. Attaining menarche at early age.

2. Older at the birth of your first child.

3. Attaining menopause at a later age.

4. Using hormone replacement therapy for a long time.

3.3. Other risk factors

1. History of previous breast cancer, dense breasts, or some other breast problems.

2. A family history of breast cancer (parent, sibling, or child).

3. Repeated exposure to radiation over the chest (Chest X-Ray).

4. Being overweight, especially after menopause.

3.4 Symptoms

Some warning signs of breast cancer are

1.  A lump or pain in the breast.

2.  Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.

3.  Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.

4.  Redness or flaky skin on the breast.

5.  Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.

6.  Fluid other than breast milk from the nipple, especially blood.

7.  A change in the size or the shape of the breast.

3.5. WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE MY RISK OF BREAST CANCER?

1. Keep a healthy weight.

2. Exercise regularly (at least four hours a week).

3. Avoid alcohol or Limit alcoholic drinks.

4. Avoid exposure to chemicals that can cause cancer (carcinogens).

5. Try to reduce your exposure to radiation during medical tests like mammograms,

6. X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans.

7. If you have been advised hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives (birth control pills), ask your doctor about the risks.

8. Breastfeed your babies to reduce risk. 

Protective factors for Cancer :

There is not enough proof that taking multivitamin and  mineral supplements  or single  vitamins  or minerals can prevent  cancer. The following vitamins and mineral supplements have been studied, but have not been shown to lower the risk of cancer (Link: Diet for Preventing Cancer)

1. Vitamin B6

2. Vitamin B12

3. Vitamin E

4. Vitamin C

5. Beta carotene

6. Folic acid

7. Selenium

8. Vitamin D 

     

CERVICAL CANCER 

4.1. Burden of cervical cancer

There are around 94857 new cases and 2, 56, 114 of Persons living with cervical cancer in the India. It is the most common cancer in rural area. More than 4500 new cases estimated every year and more than 12,500 persons living with cervical cancer in Karnataka at any given time. The cervical cancer common among women between the age group 30-60 years. 

4.2. Who are the high risk women?

1. Multiple sexual partner

2. Smokers

3. Poor genital hygiene

4.3. Symptoms

1. A symptomatic in early stage

2. Excessive white discharge

3. Bleeding between the periods and sexual intercourse

4. Postmenopausal bleeding

5. Chronic pain in abdomen and low backache 

4.4 Methods of Screening

1. PAP Smear test

2. HPV and DNA test

3. VIA method (Visual inspection with accitic acid)

4.5 PAP TEST

A Simple painless easy test. A doctor or nurse will take a sample of cells from cervix using small brush

When it should be done

It  should be done to all the women between the age group of 36-60 years.

In Reproductive women before or after the menstrual cycle. In post menopausal Wom.

 

 

 

Last Updated: 05-07-2021 12:09 PM Updated By: Admin


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