Posted in: Cancer by Dr. Tarang Krishna Posted Date: 21 Jul, 2015
There is a CAN in cancer because we can beat it! Complete cancer recovery is still not guaranteed, however survival rate has increased for several cancers due to advance in early detection and treatment. Cancer is a disease that is caused by uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells. It is categorized (Stage1 –Stage 4) based on the spread of the disease. Early detection is the key to fight cancer.
Prostate cancer: It is a disease that begins to grow in the prostate (male reproductive organ). Prostate tumors usually grow slowly and a person can stay normally without encountering any health issues for years. This is the reason why 98.9% of men live even 5 years after diagnosis. It is important to get regular screening because at times the cancer spreads to the other parts of the body and this makes it difficult to treat. Two main ways to check prostate cancer are:
- Direct rectal exam
- PSA test: Blood test that measures the level of a protein- usually higher in case of prostate cancer
Thyroid cancer: It is a cancer that usually starts from follicular or parafollicular thyroid cells. This cancer can be cured with surgery that removes the affected area. Thyroid cancer is usually found by the doctor by physical examination. As there are no screening tests for thyroid cancer it is recommended that any swelling or lump in the neck area should be reported to the Doctor. Chances of thyroid cancer survival 5 years after diagnosis are 97.9%.
Testicular cancer: A cancer that develops in one or both the testicles. Due to advance in cancer treatment, testicular cancer can be treated even in the advanced stage. Around 95% of men survive 5 years after the cancer diagnosis. As there are no screening tests available, doctor should be consulted if there is any change in the size of one of the testicles or if lumps are encountered.
Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that has 91.5% chances of survival is one of the most common types of skin cancer. This cancer has a high survival rate as it can be spotted in the early stage due to the formation of moles on the skin. If the cancer spreads it is difficult to treat, hence it is advised to check for abnormal moles on the back, scalp, scrotum or in between the toes.
Breast cancer: A cancer that affects the cells of the breast. Around 89% of people survive after diagnosis due to advance in the cancer treatment. According to studies, getting screened on a regular basis can increase the chances of survival. One of the best screening tests available is mammogram which should be taken after the age of 40.
Most of the cancer can be treated when detected early. Hence it is a must to be Cancer Aware!