Did you know that some of the very commonly tested parameters of routine blood tests can indicate a serious underlying illness like cancers. Uncovering this connection can help in early diagnosis and prompt treatment for many.
Let’s start this journey together. We’ll talk about what hemoglobin is and why it matters. We’ll look at different cancers, and how cancers can lead to low hemoglobin levels? We will discuss treatments and their effects, symptoms to watch for, coping methods, and long-term outcomes.
Haemoglobin is made up of iron(haem) and protein (globin). It takes oxygen to all parts of your body. Without it, our organs couldn’t work like they’re supposed to.
Now, let’s link anemia and cancer together. We’ll look at it from a medical angle. Why do anemia and cancer often go hand-in-hand?
Iron deficiency anemia lowers the number of healthy red blood cells. This kind of anemia often goes with cancer. Some cancers affect the quality and quantity of red blood cells, leading to anemia. Also, chemotherapy can slow down the making of new blood cells.
Low haemoglobin levels can be caused by various cancers, including leukaemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. These types of cancers can cause anaemia by destroying or preventing the production of healthy red blood cells. However, even cancer treatment produces low haemoglobin because the drugs used help cancer cause bone marrow suppression.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Did you know ?
Low hemoglobin is a complex issue, with each part telling a different story. We need to separate naturally low levels from those tied to diseases or conditions.
A small dip in hemoglobin levels doesn’t always ring alarm bells. For example, women who are menstruating or pregnant often have lower hemoglobin counts.These can be managed well with adequate diet and iron supplements prescribed by a doctor.
Other causes can be-
By exploring specific diseases and conditions, we gain more insight into low hemoglobin and its link to various cancers.
Let’s get into how low hemoglobin and different cancers are intertwined.
These kinds of cancers attack the making and working of blood cells, resulting in anaemia. Blood cells are made by the bone marrow; when cancer affects the bone marrow, it starts producing abnormal numbers and poor quality blood cells which fail to perform their functions.
In cases of cervical cancer, abnormal cell growth in the cervix can lead to bleeding, iron deficiency, and anemia.
Colon cancer can cause anemia by making tumors grow on or in red blood cell-carrying vessels. Colo-rectal cancers often lead to bleeding which may be a reason for anemia due to blood loss.
Kidney cancer messes with the making of a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps in the production of red blood cells. This leads to anemia.
Prostate cancer can cause bleeding leading to anemia. It can also affect the production of red blood cells if it spreads to the bones.
The table below discusses how each cancer type could be connected to low hemoglobin.
| Cancer Type | Association with Low Hemoglobin |
|---|---|
| Blood and Bone Marrow | Affects the production and workings of red blood cells. |
| Cervical | Causes bleeding and iron deficiency leading to anemia. |
| Colon | Causes tumor formation leading to anemia. |
| Kidney | Interferes with red blood cell production resulting in anemia. |
| Prostate | Can cause bleeding and affect red blood cell production. |
Cancers and the associated chemotherapies are a common cause of inflammation and a consequent reduced red blood cell count amounting to reduced haemoglobin. On the other hand, kidney cancer, liver cancer, and polycythemia vera — a rare type of blood cancer can cause a rise in haemoglobin levels.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
To diagnose both anemia and cancer, a medical check-up, including blood tests, is the first thing to do. Based on this, further tests may be needed.
To treat anemia and cancer, using the right mix of medication and personal habit changes is key.
Consult a hematologist if you suffer from very low hemoglobin levels. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications rich in iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12, contingent on the root cause. Severe cases may necessitate blood transfusions.
If there’s a lot of bleeding, surgery to cure the underlying cause of bleeding may be suggested.
For iron-deficiency anemia, iron pills, tonic or intravenous iron might be given. If it’s due to a B12 or folate shortage, vitamin pills are also suggested.
If the body isn’t responding to other treatments or if your child loses a lot of blood, a blood transfusion may be an option.
Consult a hemoato-oncologist or nearest cancer hospital if your primary healthcare provider suspects cancer. Cancer treatment may require multi-dimensional approaches to control the spread of cancer.
Surgery is a common treatment option for cancer that involves the removal of tumors or cancerous tissues from the body. Depending on the type, size, and stage of cancer, surgical procedures can vary from minimally invasive techniques to more extensive operations. Surgery aims to eliminate or reduce the spread of cancer and can be curative or used to relieve symptoms.
Chemotherapy is a systemic cancer treatment involving the use of powerful drugs to destroy or inhibit the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells. These drugs can target cancer cells throughout the body, even those that have spread. Chemotherapy is administered through various methods such as intravenous infusions, oral pills, or injections. While effective at killing cancer cells, it can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects like nausea, fatigue, and hair loss.
They are often used in combination with other treatments and are tailored to the patient’s unique genetic and molecular profile. Targeted therapy aims to disrupt cancer’s progression by interfering with specific cellular processes critical for its survival and growth.
Immunotherapy is an innovative cancer treatment that harnesses the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It involves using substances, such as checkpoint inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies, to stimulate the immune response against cancer. Immunotherapy aims to overcome the strategies cancer cells use to evade detection and destruction by the immune system.
This uses radiowaves targeted at the affected region of body to destroy cancerous cells.
An oncologist can advise the best suited course of treatment depending on the type and stage of cancer.
In the tables below, treatment options for anemia and cancer are summarized.
| Anemia Treatment | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Surgical Options | Could address issues with extreme bleeding |
| Medications | Iron, B12, or folate supplements could correct deficiencies |
| Blood Transfusions | Could replace lost blood or cases that aren’t responding |
| Cancer Treatment | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Surgery Options | Depending on cancer type and stage |
| Chemotherapy | Uses drugs to kill cancer cells |
| Targeted Therapy | Targets changes in cancer cells helping them grow |
| Immunotherapy | Strengthens the body’s natural defenses to combat cancer |
| Radiotherapy | Kills cancerous cells |
Derranged haemoglobin and other counts in a CBC are often helpful in leading the diagnosis of cancers, especially the ones related to blood cells and bone marrow. Unusually low or high counts of blood cells n CBC should be discussed with a doctor without delay.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Treating cancer, especially with chemotherapy, can sometimes lead to lower hemoglobin levels.
Chemotherapy affects all fast-growing cells, which include those in the bone marrow that make new blood cells. This can also cause anaemia.
After treatment, managing anemia well becomes essential. Quick recovery might mean changing one’s diet, more iron or vitamin B12 supplements, and even blood transfusions if needed.
Handling anemia while dealing with cancer is more like a marathon than a sprint. Let’s look at long-term views and effective coping strategies.
Dealing with anemia while fighting cancer is doubly hard. From detailed diet changes to keeping a positive mindset, every little thing helps.
Patients dealing with both anemia and cancer will have different long-term outcomes based on cause and severity. Good follow-up and customized care plans can make a major difference.
Here’s a diagram summarizing these strategies:
| Strategy | Application |
|---|---|
| Coping | Changes in diet, staying positive |
| Outlook | Follow-up, custom care plans |
This deep dive into the link between low hemoglobin and various cancers highlights an overlooked but key connection. The symptoms and disease paths often overlap. So, discussing anemia and cancer together is vital. We need input from doctors, researchers, and patients.
Regular check-ups and regular cancer checks can find problems early. Knowing early can lead to better treatment results and outcomes.
At the end of the day, clear communication bridges the gap between how we see things and how they are. Knowledge paves the way for prevention, accurate diagnoses, and successful treatment.
In conclusion, with this post, we’ve aimed to explain a complex but crucial connection between low hemoglobin and various kinds of cancer. An understanding of this topic, along with insights from your healthcare provider, can help you handle these conditions in an informed and proactive manner. So, keep learning, stay alert, and face challenges head-on.
Also Read: What Causes High Red Blood Cell Count: Insights Into Hematological Disorders
Not always. While many types of cancer can lead to low hemoglobin levels, many other non-cancerous conditions can also cause anemia.
Yes, certain cancers link more strongly with anemia. These mainly consist of blood, bone marrow, cervical, colon and kidney cancer.
Non-cancerous conditions that link to low hemoglobin include heavy menstrual bleeding, autoimmune diseases, chronic diseases, vitamin and iron deficiencies, and inherited blood problems.
While leukemia can cause anemia, having slightly low hemoglobin does not necessarily mean you have leukemia. It’s important to get a correct diagnosis from a doctor.
Yes, especially chemotherapy, as it has an effect on all cells that grow quickly, including red blood cells. So, chemotherapy often results in anemia.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Cancer is a disease which not only makes a person suffer physically but also mentally. It affects the lives of both the patients and those closely associated with the patient. While there are several treatment options available with the onset of modern medicine, taking some precautionary measures and adopting certain healthy habits may help reduce the risk of developing some cancers. An overall active and healthy life may be less prone to developing the deadly disease, cancer.
When abnormal cells of the body begin to divide at a very fast rate, they end up damaging or sometimes even destroying the normal functional tissues of our body. This causes Cancer. Sometimes these abnormal cells which multiply at an exponential rate, form lumps known as tumours. However, tumours are not always malignant(cancerous) and can be benign (non-cancerous) as well. Cancer can affect any part of the body and can eventually spread to the other parts if not treated on time.
The DNA in our bodies is determined at the time of our birth but may undergo mutations at any time. These mutations often result in mistakes (abnormal cells) which are usually identified and corrected by our bodies. Sometimes some abnormal cells go unnoticed by our bodies. Cancer is a condition in which these abnormal cells undergo uncontrolled multiplication and spread to different parts of the body.
The external factors which are known to cause cancer are called carcinogens. So what exactly causes cancer? It is not always possible to understand the cause of cancer but here are some common factors that are known to increase the risk of cancer-
By eliminating the modifiable risk factors mentioned above, one can attempt to reduce the risk of acquiring cancer.
Also Read: Does Air Fryer Cause Cancer? Unveiling the Facts Behind the Question
Below is a list of exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine to reduce the risk of developing cancer.
Cancer is a disease which puts a toll on both the physical and mental health of a person. The risks of developing cancer may be lowered by living a healthy and active life. Some exercises such as common everyday activities like cleaning your home with a manual broom, cycling, swimming, weight lifting, etc. may reduce the risk of cancer by helping you maintain a healthy weight and overcome problems like obesity and inactivity which are the risk factors for cancer.
Also Read: Does Skipping Reduce Weight? Examining the Facts and Myths
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
COVID 19 has not been easing off of health scares and the anxiety born out of constantly worrying about the safety of your loved ones. Let us not try to add to our health worries. There are things you are doing that could actually be damaging your health. And at a time when we all need to be at peak health, you should focus on strengthening your immunity.
None of us can claim that we are able to resist the lure of fast foods. They are delicious and at the end of a stressful day, these foods can be mood-lifters. They are part and parcel of friends’ meet-ups. We even serve them to guests because who honestly has the time to cook elaborate dishes?
But the harsh truth is, fast foods have a ruinous effect on your health. They are particularly notorious for triggering and/or aggravating obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases and even some types of cancer.
As you may have heard, some of these diseases are considered comorbidities for a person infected with COVID-19. That means if you develop these health conditions, you are likely to suffer a more severe COVID infection than usual. So why take that risk? Let us get into the details of how fast foods can destroy your health.
Fast foods are loaded with unhealthy fats that can increase LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in your body. This LDL deposits along the arteries that carry blood to your heart. The arteries become narrow and the walls become hard. Blood has to push harder to reach your heart. This triggers hypertension (high blood pressure). Also, since the passages are narrowed, very little blood is able to make its way to the heart. Those muscles of the heart that are oxygen-deprived (blood carries oxygen) slowly stop functioning. Eventually, LDL and high blood pressure trigger a heart attack or even a cardiac arrest.
Fast foods may also initiate a stroke. The LDL that accumulates in the arteries as plaque may break free. Blood will carry it to the brain where it will cause a stroke.
NAFLD is a silent killer. It can wear away your liver’s ability to function. It is not just alcohol that causes chronic liver disease but foods that pack in a lot of unhealthy fats and sugars can also damage your liver. Fast foods can cause fats to be deposited in your liver and may even trigger inflammation. If unchecked, this could lead to serious liver damage (cirrhosis). NAFLD may even cause liver cancer. NAFLD is almost always a result of a diet rich in triglycerides (hint: all those rolls, burgers and pizzas you adore). NAFLD can easily be avoided and even if you have already been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you can drastically reduce your liver fat by losing weight.
Fast foods are loaded with sugars, fats and salts. None of these in excess is good for you, especially if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes. These foods will mess up your diabetes management plans. Besides, fast foods have a high glycemic index, which means right after consumption, they will make your blood sugar level shoot up, the level will drop again soon. This constant fluctuation is really bad for someone with diabetes and may even trigger insulin resistance in people who do not have diabetes.
Also Read: Are French Fries Healthy? A Detailed Nutritional Analysis
By now we all know that fast foods stuff us with calories. Our sedentary lifestyles do not allow us to burn these extra calories and the result is weight gain. This has happened to multitudes of people during the lockdown. But did you know that obesity is the risk factor for many diseases including heart problems, fatty liver disease, arthritis, asthma, type 2 diabetes and stroke?
Fast foods and obesity can also trigger different types of cancers such as breast cancer, endometrial cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, oesophagus cancer or kidney cancer.
Actually, there is a bit of good news. Some ‘fast foods’ are not all that bad for you. Usually, grilled foods use very very little oil and hence are not exceptionally harmful. Instances of good fast foods include chicken bowls, quinoa bowls, protein bowls, grilled sandwiches, tandoori chicken or paneer, veg/ chicken wraps (if the tortilla is made from whole wheat or mixed grains). But a word of caution, this is not a license to binge on fast foods. Everything needs to be eaten in moderation.
Also Read: Best Fast Food For Weight Watchers: Making Healthy Choices on the Go
Like any addiction, this too may seem like a difficult addiction to extricate yourself from.
Take a vow to steer clear of fast foods. Do not push off implementing this vow, do it right away. There are many healthy foods you can eat that taste exciting. Eat healthy and filling meals so that you are not tempted to binge. Also, remember to exercise a little every day to amplify the effects of your healthy diet and to boost your immunity against diseases.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Did you know that toxins can be present everywhere? Right from the air we breathe in, the food we eat, to the water we drink. The good news is that our bodies are naturally equipped – the liver – with the power to flush away the toxins. The bad news is that the 21st-century lifestyle is bombarding our bodies with harmful substances that may overpower the liver and cause a health breakdown. An increase in air, water and soil pollution can have adverse effects on our health.
Dust, smoke and other environmental pollutants can put us at risk of one or more health issues. Air pollution can lead to symptoms like cold, cough, bronchitis, respiratory problems, eye irritation, skin allergy and more.
Water and soil pollution can increase the levels of toxins in blood that may present as body pain, weakness, bone and joint problems and more.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the elements that may act as toxins if ingested or inhaled in excess. Your doctor may advise you blood tests to check for the impact of pollution or toxins on your body-
This is the most widely prevalent metal on earth. We use aluminium utensils for cooking. Particles of the metal come loose, mingle with your food and then enter your body. A high level of aluminium in your body could:
I routinely recommend toxic elements profile to my patients once a year. It is as important as the general health checkups.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
You may come in contact with cadmium if you smoke (actively or passively), use nickel-cadmium batteries or if you are a welder. Cadmium may be present in contaminated foods and water.
Cadmium is harmful because it:
Chromium is present in stainless steel- something that is widely used to make cooking utensils. Chromium can leach into your foods and build up in your body. It can:
Cobalt is used in batteries and to add colour to glass and ceramic wares. Cobalt can also be present in utensils that are meant to withstand high temperatures. So, if you are using such utensils or coloured glass bottles, you could inadvertently be consuming cobalt. Too much cobalt can:
Lead may enter your drinking water if it travels through water pipes that contain lead. This can happen to people who live in old buildings with very old plumbing. You could also inhale particles of lead if you opt for lead-based paint. Lead can cause problems like:
Mercury usually enters your body when you consume fish containing mercury, a rising health menace today. Excess mercury in your body can cause:
If you experience frequent episodes of diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting, allergies to certain foods or frequent intestinal disorders, you should test for Toxic elements as it may rule out multiple causes for your illness and help diagnose the exact underlying cause.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Selenium is used to add colour to ceramic ware as well as for preparing paints. If you use coloured ceramic utensils or if the paint on your walls contains this element, then you may experience:
This element is used in paints and printing paper. In small amounts, it cannot harm you. But prolonged exposure can:
All these elements may be building up in your body without your knowledge. Today’s lifestyle makes the accumulation of toxins very likely. Talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms that result from pollution. Tests like Pollution Impact – Advanced package analyse your blood and look for the presence of 22 toxic elements, including the 8 we discussed above. Different organ systems are also tested in the same package to help doctors assess the health impact of any toxins.
Some of these elements, such as chromium (important for making you more receptive to insulin), cobalt (helps in absorption of vitamin B12 and production of red blood cells) and selenium (enhances fertility and cognitive abilities) in small amounts are necessary to boost your health. This test will also detect if there is a shortage or imbalance of these elements.
The package comes with a total of 91 tests, including the elements, and can help you get an overall idea about your current health.
Toxins can wreak destruction upon your health and they might be accumulating in your body as we speak. Before they get the better of you, you may speak to a doctor and undergo this test to protect your health.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Second-hand smoke (SHS) also called environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is a mixture of 2 forms of smoke viz Mainstream smoke and Sidestream smoke that comes from burning tobacco. Mainstream smoke is smoke exhaled by a smoker while sidestream smoke is the smoke that arises from the lighted end of a cigarette, pipe or cigar or tobacco burning in a hookah. As compared to Mainstream smoke, sidestream smoke has higher concentrations of cancer-causing agents (carcinogens) and is more toxic. The particles are smaller in size, making them easy to enter into the lungs and the body cells.
Did you know?
Involuntary smoking or passive smoking is when non-smokers are exposed to SHS taking in the same amount of nicotine and toxic chemicals as smokers. The more SHS you breathe, the higher the levels of these harmful chemicals in your body.
Second-hand smoke can be very harmful. With more than 7000 toxic chemicals, Second-hand smoke is known to cause cancer in non-smokers. There are various disadvantages of smoking in public places and second-hand smoke. It also affects the heart and blood vessels, by increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Some studies have linked Second-hand Smoke to mental and emotional changes, too. Some studies have shown that exposure to Second-hand Smoke is linked to symptoms of depression. Children are at a higher risk of exposure to second-hand smoke, most of which comes from parents and other adults smoking at home. These children tend to get sick more often, are at a higher risk of developing lung infections (like bronchitis and pneumonia) and are more likely to have recurrent episodes of cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. Second-hand smoke is also known to trigger asthma episodes, along with the worsening of symptoms as well as cause new cases of asthma in children who previously didn’t have any symptoms. All these problems may seem small at first, but one cannot neglect with bigger ones associated with them. These would include the expenses incurred, the trips to the doctors, medicines, lost school time, parents having to stay back home to care for their sick child, let alone the discomfort the child has to go through.
Second-hand smoke is a serious health threat: According to some studies. For every 8 smokers who die from a smoking-related disease, 1 non-smoker dies from second-hand smoke exposure.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Passive Smoking can affect Non-Smokers either at their workplace, in public places or at their homes.
Read More: Health Effects of Smoking
Most adults are exposed to Second-hand smoke at their workplace. Cleaning the air and ventilating the building still falls short in preventing exposure to Second-hand smoke if people continue to smoke in the building. There should be workplace smoking restrictions.
We need to create awareness of the effects of smoking in public places. When smoking is allowed in public places like restaurants, shopping malls, public transport, parks and schools, everyone is at risk of exposure to Second-hand smoke. Hazards of smoking in public places to non-smokers are of special concern, especially when it comes to children.
We spend most of our time at home. Making our home smoke free will protect our family, our guests and even our pets. Because of Second-hand smoke, any family member could develop health problems, children being especially sensitive to the toxins present in the smoke. Ventilation, air cleaning or separating smokers from non-smokers will not control the problem of Second-hand Smoke.
Particles from second-hand tobacco smoke can settle in dust and on surfaces and remain there long after the smoke is gone. These particles can combine with gases, for example, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the air to form cancer-causing compounds that settle onto surfaces. These compounds may be stirred up and inhaled with other house dust and may also be accidentally taken in through the mouth.
The smoke that burns off the mid to the end of a cigarette or cigar actually contains more harmful substances than the smoke inhaled by the smoker, since there is no filter through which the smoke must pass, this second-hand smoking is probably worse than if you were smoking tobacco directly.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Also Read: Why Does Nicotine Make You Poop: Decoding Its Effects on Digestion
The following suggestions may help in reducing, or even eliminating, you and your family’s exposure to second-hand smoke:
Read More: How to Quit Smoking?
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Knowing and understanding the disease generally prepares one to manage things better. When your near one is diagnosed with cancer, initially it may be a denial phase for both of you, followed by acceptance. Accepting the facts is essential so that you can work towards taking care of the patient and his or her treatment.
As a cancer caregiver, it will be helpful for you to understand the disease condition and more importantly the stage at which the disease was diagnosed, the various tests and investigations that are advised by the doctor. This is important because the stage of the disease determines the kind of treatment the doctor would recommend. Based on the prescribed treatment, hospital stay, number of visits, side-effects, expenses, etc. will be decided. At times, surgery may be recommended followed by chemotherapy or radiation or vice versa.
Chemotherapy includes administration of various medicines to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. Radiation also helps to kill the cancer cells. If either of these is given before surgery, its objective is to reduce the size of the tumor to make it operable. If given after surgery, it aims to eliminate residual cancer cells, if any. Some cancers may need multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation cycles.
Also, before each chemotherapy cycle, various laboratory investigations (diagnostic tests) may be required. This is important so that the doctor can decide whether the patient can tolerate the next chemotherapy cycle. If the results are unfavorable, the cycle may be postponed, and the patient may be kept under observation.
Sometimes the patient may have to be managed at the hospital after the treatment cycle is administered due to side effects of the anticancer medicines or radiation. Radiation or chemotherapy weakens the patient badly, and they need full-time care as well as motivation to carry on. As a cancer caregiver, it is vital to never lose hope even in sad moments.
Giving care and support during this time can be a challenge. Many caregivers put their own needs and feelings aside to focus on the person with cancer. This can be hard to maintain for a long time, and it’s not good for your health. The stress can have both physical and psychological effects. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Sometimes more than the diseased, you may feel the brunt of the treatment. Also, you may think that the initial cycles are taking a toll on the patient’s health. Do not get disappointed or lose hope. Do not hold the treatment. Your doctor is the expert who would give appropriate advice.
As a cancer caregiver, this what you need to remember:
Also Read: Exploring the Link: What Type of Cancer Causes Low Hemoglobin Levels?
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
The very mention of cancer causes people to break out cold sweat, suffer palpitations and feel faint. Yes, Cancer has that effect on people. Cancer myths are in abundance even though there is a lot of awareness about this disease and this causes people to panic and think it is the end of the world. Unfortunately, thanks to half-baked knowledge and wrong information cropping up randomly, people unnecessarily worry about Cancer as a disease. This also causes people to respond and react wrongly to the diagnosis of cancer.Therefore, to clear the confusion, we are debunking the most common cancer myths. They are:MYTH #1 Cancer = death sentenceYes, people do die of cancer. But 1/3rd of all cancers can be cured if they are detected and diagnosed and then treated early on. This is the very reason why doctors and healthcare professionals constantly push their patients, friends and family members for regular health check-ups. About nine of ten people who suffer from different types of cancer such as prostate, thyroid and breast cancer can survive for a minimum of five years after their disease is diagnosed. Research and constant medical advancement mean that more and more people who are suffering from cancer, even at an advanced stage, can live longer lives.MYTH #2 It is contagiousCancer is anything but infectious! One cannot acquire the disease if they touch someone who has cancer or are present in the same room. So, no, it is not a communicable disease. In very rare cases, when someone has had a tissue or an organ transplant, they can develop cancer if the donor had cancer. Also, while it is not communicable, viruses like Hepatitis B or C that spreads through sexual intercourse or contaminated needles can increase one’s chances of liver cancer. Also, the HPV or Human papillomavirus which is an STD can increase one’s risk of cervical cancer.MYTH #3 Sugar boosts cancer growthIt is a fact that cancer cells do absorb more sugars than any healthy cells. However, no scientific evidence suggests that sugary foods or a high intake of sugar will boost cancer in one’s body. People who have high sugar intake are at risk of diabetes as they gain excessive weight. Those who are obese and have diabetes, however, are at a higher risk of developing cancer.MYTH #4 Negative thoughts and attitude will cause cancerNegativity is never a good thing, but it won’t cause cancer. No scientific evidence points to the fact that an adverse opinion or evil thoughts can cause death by cancer. Cancer is a deadly disease and people who suffer from cancer experience a gamut of emotion. They feel angry, sad, confused, frightened and even hopeless. However, a positive attitude may help them overcome stress during treatment.MYTH #5 A tumour biopsy or surgery for cancer removal will spread the diseaseThere is a possibility that cancer may have spread, but the chances of this occurring due to a biopsy or surgery is very very low. Cancer surgeons are highly meticulous and with advanced procedures, they take all necessary steps.MYTH #6 Cancer is most definitely hereditary!Yes, cancer can be inherited, but the chances are about 5-10% only because of genetic mutations. If one has a strong family history of cancer, then they are at a higher risk of developing the disease. But this doesn’t mean that they will get cancer at some point in time in their lives. However, factors like exposure to radiation, ageing and smoking play a significant role.MYTH #7 No family history of cancer so no risk of cancerAt least 2 in 5 people will develop cancer in their life. It is caused by genetic mutations within the cells. One may have inherited these mutated genes from parents or earlier generation. However, factors like smoking, exposure to radiation and viruses also play an essential role in developing cancer.Also Read: Is Bowel Leakage a Sign of Cancer? Unpacking Oncology-Related SymptomsDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. 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